Liverpool “expect to finalize the signing of Khephren Thuram” as summer rebuilding progresses

Liverpool are reportedly close to completing the signing of Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram as Jurgen Klopp’s summer rebuilding gains momentum.

The 22-year-old Thuram is keen on a move to Anfield and could become Klopp’s second signing of the summer after £35million signing Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton earlier this month.

Thuram made 48 appearances in all competitions for Ligue 1 during the 2022-23 season, scoring two goals and providing a further eight assists from midfield.

In turn, the Frenchman has caught the attention of the Reds, who are “pushing hard to seal a comprehensive deal” with the dynamic midfielder, says Football Insider.

The report adds that Liverpool now “expect to make a deal for Thuram”, who also “wants the transfer”. It comes after midfielder Rafaela Pimenta’s agent was seen visiting the Nice headquarters earlier this month amid speculation about the player’s future.

Newcastle United are also keen to sign Thuram, with Eddie Howe keen to add a “box office midfielder” to their ranks this summer, but Liverpool appear to be in pole position for signing him.

How much will Thuram cost?

Thuram, who is currently absent on international commitments with France at the Under-21 European Championships, still has two years left on his contract with Nice, giving the club some financial clout in the transfer market.

Nice are said to value the French international at around €60m, but the French club are hoping for a bidding war over their prized asset. With Liverpool appearing to be in a good position to sign Thuram, journalist Neil Jones believes the lack of a release clause in the midfielder’s contract could complicate matters ahead of the international transfer window opening in July.

“When we talk about deal delays, I think as I mentioned it’s more of a club-by-club issue and that will determine how quickly or if a deal is finalized,” Jones said. at Empire of the Koop.

“It’s not a case like Alexis Mac Allister where you know the price you’re going to pay and you know the other club has no say in the matter.

“Of course the EURO complicates things when it comes to medical care and things like that, but I don’t see any problem on the player’s side – it’s all on the club side.”

Man Utd sale could impact Liverpool’s ability to complete Khephren Thuram signing as takeover doubts remain

Manchester United’s ongoing takeover process could impact Liverpool’s attempts to sign sympathetic midfielder Khephren Thuram.

The Reds have been linked with a move for the 22-year-old France international in recent weeks as manager Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen his midfield.

According to Sky Sports, the Reds have started preliminary talks with Nice over the midfielder’s arrival. In the short term, Thuram will play in the France U21 team at the next European U21 Championship. He will be joined by Borussia Mönchengladbach star Manu Kone, who is also interested in Liverpool.

He has been almost ubiquitous for Didier Digard’s side this season, scoring two goals and providing four assists in 35 league appearances. However, a move to Liverpool might not be entirely easy.

Why Thuram’s move to Liverpool could have an impact

Nice is owned by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his petrochemical company INEOS. Ratcliffe is, of course, a name often associated with Manchester United in recent months as they attempt to buy a majority stake in the club from the Glazer family.

However, according to French outlet L’Equipe, the involvement of Ratcliffe and INEOS in the Old Trafford takeover process has had an impact on Nice.

In particular, there are rumors that the French club’s transfer budget could be reduced if Ratcliffe succeeds in his attempts to acquire a majority stake in United, with their transfer activity already impacted by his involvement in the process.

The report said the club needs sufficient compensation and investment to attract “high quality replacements”.

This could help Liverpool in their hunt for the midfielder. L’Equipe (via the Liverpool Echo) previously reported that Nice are seeking a £51.4m fee for Thuram, but the Reds could persuade them to lower their asking price if the French club are in dire need of the cash.

But there may be another complication. According to The Athletic, it has been “hinted in the industry” that Ratcliffe has decided to sell Nice if he manages to buy United, which could delay Liverpool’s move to Thuram.