Liverpool 'have asked' AS Monaco about signing midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni this summer, according to Marca (via Sport Witness).

The lowdown

The Athletic's David Ornstein reported in January that the Reds were 'exploring options to strengthen in central midfield' ahead of the summer transfer window; and 22-year-old Tchouameni, who can play as a number six or a number eight, appears to be one of those candidates.

With just over two years remaining on his contract at the Stade Louis II, he is valued at £36m by Transfermarkt.

The latest

The report from Marca (via Sport Witness) stated that Liverpool have enquired about a potential deal for the Frenchman.

Encouragingly for the Reds, the player is said to be 'aiming for a Premier League transfer' and is open to a move to Anfield, although Spanish giants Real Madrid will also do their best to persuade him.

The expectation is that AS Monaco will cash in on the 22-year-old this summer.

The verdict

Tchouameni would be an excellent signing for Jurgen Klopp's side.

He appears to be a very well-rounded player, ranking in the 90th percentile or better among positional peers in the top five leagues for tackles and interceptions, also faring well when it comes to progressive passes (80th) and dribbles completed (77th).

He has already racked up seven caps for reigning world champions France and was named as the Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year last season.

Indeed, Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig has marvelled at his 'simply incredible' consistency and dubbed him 'pure gold', which indicates just how gifted a midfielder Liverpool would be getting if they can win this particular transfer race.

In other news, this Liverpool forward is a 'concrete target' for one Serie A club