Liverpool tipped to end interest in key midfield target as Jurgen Klopp focuses on two alternatives

Manu Kone on crutches after picking up an injury playing for France under-21s

Liverpool could reportedly end their interest in Borussia Monchengladbach defensive midfielder Manu Kone after he picked up an injury in the under-21 European Championships.

It’s no secret that Jurgen Klopp is looking to further strengthen his midfield, even after signing Alexis Mac Allister earlier in the summer.

Kone is believed to be one of several names on Liverpool’s transfer shortlist. In fact, reports a few weeks ago claimed the Frenchman’s switch to Anfield was almost a ‘done deal.’

However, now, the Reds could pull out of the race. This is according to the Daily Express, who state that Kone’s recent injury could force Klopp to look for other options.

Indeed, made his second start of the under-21 Euros for France against Switzerland on Wednesday. But, an early blow to his right knee saw him substituted after just 19 minutes.

The midfielder ultimately left the stadium ‘on crutches.’ After further tests on Thursday, it was revealed that he will miss the remainder of the tournament with a ‘sprained knee with trauma to the kneecap.’

As it stands, Kone’s return date is yet to be confirmed. Therefore, Liverpool are set to prioritise alternatives.

But, they may have already found two excellent options.

Indeed, reports suggest that the Reds are now ‘pushing ahead’ with transfer talks for Dominik Szoboszlai.

The RB Leipzig star scored six goals and made eight assists in the Bundesliga last season. As a result, he caught the attention of several top clubs, including Liverpool and Newcastle.

With the Reds now favourites to sign Szoboszlai, this suggests they have ended their interest in Kone. Although, with Szoboszlai more of an attacking option, they may still sign a defensive midfielder.

The likeliest is Khephren Thuram. The Nice midfielder has long been considered to be one of Klopp’s top targets.

Last season, he made 35 appearances in Ligue 1, scoring two goals and making four assists.

Now, Liverpool are reportedly ‘closing in’ on signing Thuram. Earlier this month, it was claimed that the Reds had ‘already agreed’ personal terms with the Frenchman. So, the only thing left to negotiate is a transfer fee.

Thuram was previously valued at  €40m (£34.5m) by Nice. But, after performing well in the under-21 Euro Championships, his ultimate price tag could end up being much higher than that.

With that in mind, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool can agree a fee for Thuram. What seems highly unlikely, though, is that they will be singing Kone this summer, after his recent injury.