LIVERPOOL’S £16 million price tag might reignite interest in the midfield.
Liverpool’s upcoming summer targets include a former midfield prospect now potentially available at a discounted price. As Arne Slot gears up to succeed Jurgen Klopp, speculation swirls around the Reds’ transfer plans. Recent reports suggest a chance to revisit interest in a previous midfield target as Slot shapes his squad.
Last summer, Liverpool eyed several midfield options like Manu Kone, Frenkie De Jong, and Kephren Thuram, who now might be attainable for just £16 million due to his contract situation at Nice. The question arises: would Thuram still be an enticing prospect for Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes?
For those unfamiliar, Kephren Thuram, a 23-year-old central midfielder, plays for Nice in Ligue 1, following his stint in AS Monaco’s academy. Son of football icon Lilian Thuram and brother to Inter Milan’s Marcus Thuram, Kephren has made 165 appearances for Nice since 2019, notably featuring in 27 matches this season, contributing with a goal and an assist. Despite interest from top clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur last year, Thuram’s value has seemingly decreased from £40 million.
Financial adjustments have led to revisiting Thuram’s potential, as Liverpool, along with other clubs, explore their options in midfield.
Reports from France indicate that Thuram might be available for £15-20 million this summer, despite Transfermarkt.com valuing him at £35 million. This price adjustment could catch Liverpool’s attention, especially considering they could offset most of the cost with a potential sale of Wataru Endo. Even at £20 million, Thuram, given his talent and age, could represent a significant bargain.
Regarding his fit in Liverpool’s tactics, Thuram’s versatility stands out, as he can play as both an eight and a six, primarily in a three-man midfield. However, with Arne Slot expected to shift Liverpool to a 4-2-3-1 formation, Thuram’s performance in a two-man midfield has been less convincing this season compared to when he’s part of a trio. While Thuram could provide the physical presence Liverpool’s midfield has lacked since Fabinho’s departure and possesses impressive skills on the ball, it’s uncertain if Slot would want to build the team around him.
Under Jurgen Klopp, Thuram would be a clear choice, fitting the mold of a typical Klopp midfielder. However, with Slot’s arrival, his suitability to the system is questionable, potentially hindering the progress of players like Ryan Gravenberch and Curtis Jones. If Endo leaves for around £10 million, Thuram would make sense, but Liverpool might still pursue someone high-profile like Alan Varela this summer.