Liverpool have reportedly ended their pursuit of Khephren Thuram as Jurgen Klopp switched his attention towards Romeo Lavia.
According to This is Anfield, Liverpool may have ended their pursuit of Khephren Thuram despite holding concrete talks with the player’s entourage. Jurgen Klopp may feel the need for a more defensive-minded midfielder, with Romeo Lavia the preferred name on his shortlist.
Liverpool continues to make waves in the transfer window as Jurgen Klopp continues to strengthen his squad as per his specifications. Before the market opened, the need to strengthen the midfield looked essential, and the club have done a good bit of business so far.
After the promising capture of Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton, Liverpool recently signed Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig. Klopp sanctioned the move with the club, triggering his release clause worth €70 million. With the arrival of the Hungaria, the manager might switch his attention to a more defensive-minded midfielder, thus placing doubts on a move for Khephren Thuram.
The 22-year-old Frenchman was a key target for Klopp before the Szoboszlai deal. Liverpool were close to signing Thuram at one stage, but their preferences have changed. The OGC Nice star started his career as a defensive midfielder but has moulded his style around a more attack-minded player in recent seasons.
With Szoboszlai and Mac Allister, Klopp has that profile and more in young talents like Harvey Elliot and even Curtis Jones. Hence any move for Thuram seems like a luxury at this stage, which has led to Liverpool ending their pursuit of the 22-year-old Frenchman.
Liverpool are now focusing their efforts on Romeo Lavia, with many sources claiming an offer was imminent. The Southampton star has plenty of interest from Premier League sides like Arsenal and Chelsea. A bidding war could ensue if all sides intend to sign the 19-year-old Saints star.
As for Thuram, he may had started dreaming about signing for Liverpool, but that may not happen anymore. Klopp likes the player, but with fewer funds available after recent transfers, he will prioritise what the team needs over Thuram at this stage.
