Liverpool FC have set its sights on Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone, who favours the Reds over other potential suitors, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, according to recent reports.
The Reds, known for their pursuit of midfield reinforcements this transfer window, initially targeted Jude Bellingham, but their hopes were dashed as Real Madrid secured his signing.
Now, Liverpool’s attention has turned to Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton, with negotiations expected to finalize early in the summer.
Manu Kone to Liverpool: A Possibility?
Reports indicate that Kone, a French U21 international, holds Liverpool in high regard, considering Anfield as his preferred destination.
SportBILD’s Tobi Altschaffl has told Empire of the Kop,
“There were rumours about Chelsea and PSG wanting Kone but I think, at the moment, Liverpool is No.1 for him.
There is a new era starting in the midfield of Liverpool and he could be one piece of the puzzle for that.
I don’t think [Kone] a top, top priority, a No.1 [for Liverpool], but I think this is a deal which is easier than the big deals like… I don’t want to compare him to anyone like Kylian Mbappe.
It’s only about potentially discussing valuation, like is he €30m, or €35 or €40m. Kone is more likely because he’s not going to have a high transfer fee.
Maybe at the end, it’s €30m plus €5m bonus – something like that. This could go fast if Liverpool are pushing.”
Altschaffl has also indicated,
“The situation is very clear. Liverpool and Klopp – they want three new midfielders and they are looking for them in the Bundesliga.
You have Jorg Schmadtke and the guys that know the Bundesliga very well, so it’s obvious that Kone is one of those players.
I think Gladbach know they have to sell him. If Liverpool are pushing, I think they’ve got very good chances of getting Manu Kone.”
What is Special About Kone?
22-year-old Manu Kone has made 60 appearances for Borussia Monchengladbach over the past two seasons. Kone’s versatility and technical ability have impressed observers, and his statistics demonstrate his defensive prowess, strong tackling, and dribbling skills.
Although not known for prolific goal-scoring, Kone’s ball progression attributes align well with Jurgen Klopp’s style of play, making him an attractive option for Liverpool’s midfield trio.
The Possibilities
Liverpool have reportedly initiated talks with Borussia Monchengladbach and is willing to meet the asking price of €40-45 million. The club’s recent appointment of Jorg Schmadtke as sporting director, known for his experience in German markets, could facilitate negotiations.
While Chelsea have also shown interest in Kone, Liverpool’s offer of European football next season may tip the scales in their favor. Chelsea, in the meantime, have been linked with Sporting CP’s Manuel Ugarte. However, a swift decision from Ugarte is necessary to avoid missing out on both targets.
As the transfer window unfolds, Liverpool remains determined to bolster their midfield with the addition of Manu Kone, a player who possesses the qualities and potential to contribute significantly to Klopp’s team.
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