Report: Liverpool begin talks over £52m striker who Ibrahima Konate once called ‘the best’ in his league…

Liverpool have initiated discussions regarding a £52 million striker, previously hailed as ‘the best’ in his league by Ibrahima Konate.

The club is actively working to enhance their squad this summer under the guidance of Arne Slot and Richard Hughes.

TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, has confirmed that Liverpool’s significant summer plans include acquiring a new striker.

Bailey noted, ‘The Reds are targeting a new striker and possibly a creative player, such as a left winger or central attacking midfielder.

Securing a new No. 9 is among their top priorities.’ Recent reports from France indicate that Liverpool has started negotiations for Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku.

According to Footmercato, the Reds have added Nkunku to their shortlist, and discussions regarding a transfer for the French forward have commenced.

Liverpool is seeking attacking reinforcements and values versatile players, which explains their interest in Nkunku.

However, they face competition from Newcastle United and Bayern Munich, both of whom are also interested in Nkunku and have been briefed on the terms of a potential deal.

Konate, who is an international teammate of Nkunku and previously played alongside him at RB Leipzig, praised Nkunku in 2022 while on duty with the French national team, stating, ‘There’s no need to describe Nkunku; he is the best player in the Bundesliga this season.

He wins a lot and possesses excellent technical skills. I maintain close relationships with him, as well as with Matteo Guendouzi, Moussa Diaby, and Boubacar Kamara in the national team. In reality, I am close to everyone.’

Wesley Fofana once remarked about Nkunku: ‘I have seldom witnessed such exceptional finishing ability in front of goal.’

Nkunku shone at RB Leipzig in Germany, amassing 70 goals and 54 assists over 172 matches.

His remarkable performance earned him the Bundesliga Player of the Season accolade for 2021/22.

Konate and Nkunku have played together 35 times for both club and country, and there is a possibility they may reunite at the club level in the future.