Liverpool steps up Aurelien Tchouameni transfer chase with offer in works

Liverpool is reportedly ready to reignite its interest in Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni as Arne Slot eyes up his perfect number six for his side.

Slot is eager to play a defensive midfielder in his 4-2-3-1 formation, but missed out on Real Sociedad's Martin Zubamendi this past summer transfer window.

Ryan Gravenberch has shone in the role and has arguably been Liverpool's player of the season so far, but rumors persist about a potential long-term option being signed - which would allow Gravenberch to play further up. According to Fichajes, Liverpool is readying itself to make a bid for Tchouameni, who was previously linked with a move to Anfield.

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The French midfielder has at times been deputised at centre-back due to Madrid's poor injury form, but his favored role is in the middle of midfield.

Liverpool had tried to sign Tchouameni in the past, most notably before he signed for Madrid, back in 2022.

At the time, Liverpool was hunting a long-term midfielder ahead of the likely departures of Thiago Alcantara and Jordan Henderson, but the Frenchman chose Madrid.

Now, however, he may be tempted to swap the Bernabeau for Anfield, with reports the Reds are preparing to make an opening offer of $64 million - half the $128 million Real Madrid is asking for.

The report claims that offer is being prepared with the idea of finding a compromise with Madrid, which is considering selling and cashing in on the player.

Liverpool.com says: Ryan Gravenberch arguably deserves better than to be replaced, but if Slot can find a way to get him and Tchouameni in the same team, why not go for it? Liverpool won't catch and overtake free-spending Manchester City without a bit of spending itself.