Liverpool £80m dream target edges closer after HUGE u-turn

Liverpool's failure to sign a defensive midfielder during the transfer window led to many predicting major problems for them during the 2024/25 season. 

Martin Zubimendi rejected a move to Merseyside, having seemingly already agreed personal terms. This cast a negative look unto the Reds and questioned their influence on attracting major stars. 

However, Ryan Gravenberch has filled that void this season magnificently and the Zubimendi saga feels like a forgotten memory. 

Read more: Why Alexis Mac Allister is perfect for Arne Slot's Reds 

Now it is being reported that another midfielder linked with Liverpool is struggling out in Spain, leading to question marks over his future. 

Tchouameni struggles for form

Aurelien Tchouameni is an incredible talent. The French international possesses incredible strengths including phenomenal passing range and ability to easily win ground duels. 

The 24-year-old was tracked by the Reds throughout 2022, however he snubbed Liverpool and decided to sign for Real Madrid instead. 

Since then, the Spanish giants have not entertained any offers for the defensive midfielder. However, following his performance in the Madrid derby on Sunday, Tchouameni has come under pressure and the feeling around him has taken a u-turn,

Spanish outlet ‘AS’ has hinted that Federico Valverde almost got the Madrid number 14 “out of jail” due to his poor showing at the weekend. 

The article states that Valverde is “forced to run extra miles to cover for the Frenchman in defensive transitions. In fact, he intercepted almost twice as many balls (nine to five) as Tchouameni, who only made one more recovery than Modric, despite the captain playing 14 minutes less.”

Author Carlos Forjanes bluntly ends the piece saying, “the buzz surrounding Tchouameni’s effectiveness is reaching a near-deafening level.” 

An incredibly harsh assessment of the Frenchman's performance could lead Liverpool to act fast. If these issues within Madrid continue, the Reds may snap up the midfielder and give him a way out of the criticism.

With Liverpool failing to sign an alternative to Zubimendi, this could be the perfect opportunity for Arne Slot to react and gain the services of the Madrid outcast.