Liverpool Transfers: Arne Slot Targets Midfielder Klopp Rejected as First Signing, with ‘Talks’ Underway
Liverpool are reviving their interest in Nice star Khephren Thuram as new manager Arne Slot seeks to make his mark ahead of his first season at Anfield. Slot, tasked with living up to Jurgen Klopp’s legacy, aims to bolster the midfield despite Klopp having signed four new midfielders last season.
One long-standing target for Liverpool is the 23-year-old defensive midfielder Khephren Thuram from Nice. According to an Italian outlet, Liverpool has ‘opened talks’ over a deal for Thuram, who was on their shortlist last summer before Klopp opted for other targets.
Thuram is regarded as one of the top young defensive midfielders in Ligue 1, contributing significantly to Nice’s Europa League qualification with 29 appearances, one goal, and one assist this season. Although he narrowly missed out on the French squad for the Euros, his performances have not gone unnoticed.
With Thuram’s contract set to expire in just over a year and no signs of an extension, Nice is likely to sell him this summer to avoid a reduced fee later. Reports suggest Liverpool could sign him for as little as £15 million, making him a potential bargain.
Thuram could replace Thiago Alcantara, who will leave Liverpool as a free agent at the end of the month. Slot would then have Thuram, Endo, and Gravenberch as options for the defensive midfield position.