Fabrizio Romano has reported on Twitter that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp personally called AS Monaco defensive Aurelien Tchouameni, but he is moving to Real Madrid instead.
The well-known and well-respected journalist has claimed that although Klopp called Tchouameni and Paris Saint-Germain made the best offer, the youngster wanted to join only and only Madrid.
A deal has been reached among all three parties, according to Romano.
Madrid will reportedly pay Monaco an initial transfer fee of €80 million (£67.99m) for the Frenchman.
Aurelien Tchouameni no big miss for Liverpool
In our view, missing out on the signing of Aurelien Tchouameni is not a big blow for Liverpool.
Yes, the 22-year-old is one of the best and most promising young players in Europe, and that Madrid are signing the defensive midfielder shows how good he is.
However, Tchouameni is one for the future.
Liverpool are well stocked in midfield for the next few years.
Thiago, Fabinho and Jordan Henderson are at the top of their game and are not showing any signs of slowing down.
Liverpool are also reportedly in talks with Naby Keita to extend his contract.
And then there is Curtis Jones.
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