Premier League giants Liverpool are reportedly ‘leading the race’ for Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram amid rival interest from Serie A giants Juventus.
That, at least, is the view of TuttoJuve. An Italian-based, Bianconeri-focused publication with a finger on the pulse in Turin.
With Paul Pogba’s future very much uncertain and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg seemingly over-valued at near £30 million, Khephren Thuram yet could emerge as a leading candidate to solve Juventus’ midfield issues in 2024.
Thuram, an elegant, ball-carrying playmaker, possesses many of the attributes which made fellow Frenchman Pogba on of Europe’s best during his time in the black-and-white stripes.
TuttoJuve, however, believe that Juventus may be at risk of being left behind, Liverpool currently in pole position albeit a long time before the window opens.
Liverpool face Juventus battle for Khephren Thuram
Liverpool, the report adds, are ‘believed to be leading the race’.
The son of France legend Lillian and the younger brother of Inter Milan forward Marcus, the £50 million-rated Khephren Thuram was heavily linked with a move to Anfield over the summer too. Fabrizio Romano reported at the start of the window that Liverpool had planned to open talks with the Nice enforcer, Thuram’s balletic balance and his wonderful range of passing catching the eye during the U21 European Championships.
Liverpool eventually turned to Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister instead. But Jurgen Klopp’s side appear to still be on Thuram’s trail, potentially with the idea of bringing in the 6ft 4ins colossus to fill that troublesome ‘number six’ position.
Still on Jurgen Klopp’s radar
Liverpool are also keen on Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone. According to French football reporter Julien Laurens, however, Thuram’s superior ability on the ball could give him the edge over his all-action compatriot.
“I think Khephren is more gifted technically than Kone,” Laurens tells ESPN. “I don’t think there is a doubt about that. He can play higher up the pitch. Maybe can create more and can score more.”
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