Manchester City trying to STEAL long-term Liverpool transfer target

Liverpool have enjoyed a fantastic first half of the season under new head coach Arne Slot, but this hasn’t stopped them planning for the future.

The Reds are currently top of both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League tables but there are still areas of the squad that could be improved.

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Martin Zubimendi was the man identified to reinforce the side last summer, but it is Aurelien Tchouameni who has been constantly linked with an Anfield move since a deal for Zubimendi failed to materialise.

Now, reports suggest that Manchester City are ready to make a bid for Tchouameni, meaning Liverpool could miss out.

Manchester City could move for Tchouameni

According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester City have made the funds available for Pep Guardiola to sign Tchouameni from Real Madrid.

The Citizens may have to wait until the summer to secure the services of the Frenchman however as Real Madrid are unlikely to sanction a January departure.

“Carlo Ancelotti is reluctant to weaken his squad mid-season while [Real Madrid] want to remain competitive across all competitions,” the report states.

Guardiola’s side have suffered a dramatic dip in form since Rodri was injured, and strengthening the midfield will likely be a priority in the next few transfer windows.

Are Liverpool out of the race for Tchouameni?

Although City’s interest complicates things for Liverpool, it does not rule them out of the running for the Frenchman’s signature.

The report from Football Insider reaffirms the Reds’ interest in the 24-year-old and reveals that the option to become a ‘nailed on starter’ at either Liverpool or Manchester City appeals to the player.

With question marks over the futures of Tyler Morton and Wataru Endo and a return for Zubimendi looking unlikely, Tchouameni could be the man to strengthen Arne Slot’s midfield options.

Liverpool first tried to sign the France international before he moved from Monaco to Madrid in 2022 and his signing could offer some relief to Ryan Gravenberch at the base of the Reds’ midfield.

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