Liverpool have been handed a boost to their chances of signing AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, as per a report from Football Insider.
The lowdown: Strong interest
As the Reds continue their quest for more silverware this season, away from matters on the field new sporting director Julian Ward is already hard at work outlining the summer's top targets.
Recent reports have heavily linked the Anfield club with a sensational swoop for Tchouameni, while Calvin Ramsay is also thought to be a main target as Jurgen Klopp attempts to further strengthen an already well-stocked squad.
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Now as the Ligue 1 campaign heads into its own final two games with Monaco currently sitting third and in next season's UEFA Champions League as a result, the French outfit may already be bracing themselves for life after their highly sought after 22-year-old.
The latest: Monaco now ready to sell
As per a recruitment source at FI, Monaco are believed to be 'putting together a list of targets' in order to replace Tchouameni this summer.
The report calls it a 'major development' and a 'boost' for Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City, whilst elsewhere Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain have both been tipped to challenge for the defensive midfielder's signature.
It's claimed that the youngster, described as 'exceptional' by French football journalist Julien Laurens, has 'excited' talent spotters of the Premier League clubs and Monaco are now ready to cash in.
The verdict: Win the race
Put simply, given the levels of competition from England and indeed Europe's elite, Liverpool and moreover, FSG, must do everything in their power to win the race for the exciting eight-cap France star.
So far this season, Tchouameni has scored five times and provided two assists in 48 appearances across all competitions, taking his overall career tally to 130 senior domestic outings despite his tender years.
Holding a market value of £36million and under contract in France until 2024 (Transfermarkt), if indeed Monaco are preparing for a sale then Liverpool must do whatever it takes to bring in the combative ace, who is already an experienced operator for both club and country.
In other news, journalist drops contract claim regarding Liverpool star. Read more here.