Liverpool are keen on signing young Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Kouadio "Manu" Kone, according to a fresh update from journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The Lowdown: Kone a highly-rated player
The Frenchman is making a name for himself in Germany currently, shining as a defensive midfielder and already becoming a regular for his current club.
Kone has chipped in with one goal and assist each in the Bundesliga this season but he is known more for his defensive work, averaging 2.1 tackles per match. He is also tidy on the ball, ranking in the 99th percentile for dribbles by midfielders, holding a stylistic likeness with Brighton's Moises Caicedo (FBRef).
Liverpool are desperately in need of midfield reinforcements and it looks as though the Monchengladbach man could be a potential addition.
The Latest: Liverpool in the mix
Taking to Twitter on Tuesday, Romano name-checked the Reds among a host of teams in contact over a move for Kone:
"Many top clubs are following French big talent Manu Kone. Been told summer is move most likely plan for player, agents and ‘Gladbach.
"FC Bayern, Newcastle, PSG and also Liverpool (Bellingham remains their n1 priority) are well informed on Kone’s situation."
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The Verdict: One of numerous signings?
A move for Kone would certainly go some way towards easing Liverpool's issues in the middle of the park, with the youngster someone who would add defensive nous and some serious energy.
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That being said, Jurgen Klopp arguably needs to sign multiple midfielders in January and this summer combined, completely rebuilding that area of the pitch and easing some ageing players out - Kone wouldn't solve the problem on his own.
Whether or not a move for the youngster could happen this month remains to be seen, but he would be a long-term signing with a high ceiling, breaking into the spotlight when he won an incredible ten duels in a 5-0 victory over Bayern Munich last season.