Liverpool are exploring a move for Tottenham Hotspur defender Luka Vuskovic as a potential long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konate, according to CaughtOffside. The 19-year-old Croatian, who spent last season on loan at Hamburg, impressed in the Bundesliga, ranking in the top 10% for duels won, aerial duels, defensive contributions, and clearances, while also scoring six goals, including a spectacular scorpion kick against Werder Bremen.
Brighton & Hove Albion have already made a £45m bid for Vuskovic, as reported by Sky Sports, but Tottenham are holding out for at least £60m given his contract runs for another four years. Liverpool and Manchester United are monitoring the situation, though the Reds already have young centre-backs Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni in their ranks.
Real Madrid Midfielders Could Be Available
The Athletic's Mario Cortegana reports that Real Madrid are open to offers for Eduardo Camavinga or Aurelien Tchouameni, as new manager Jose Mourinho looks to reshape his squad. Camavinga, who has made 223 appearances for Madrid but only 16 La Liga starts last season, is valued at around €60m (£51.7m) according to Spanish outlet Sport. However, sources close to the player say a move is "impossible" this summer due to his contract. Tchouameni, 26, who Liverpool bid for in 2022 before he chose Madrid, could be the more likely departure.
Madrid need to free up funds and squad space for a creative midfielder, with Enzo Fernandez the preferred target. Either Camavinga or Tchouameni would fit Liverpool's need for a deeper midfielder alongside Ryan Gravenberch or Dominik Szoboszlai.
Diomande Deal Stalls
Liverpool's pursuit of RB Leipzig winger Yan Diomande has hit a snag. Despite reports of a second bid worth €116m, these have been dismissed as unfounded. BILD reports that Leipzig are holding firm despite pressure from Diomande's representatives, and a new contract with a higher salary remains possible. Daily Mail reporter Lewis Steele notes "a little bit of frustration" in Diomande's camp over the delay. The 19-year-old Ivory Coast star is in action against Curacao on Thursday night.
Right-Back Target: Andrei Ratiu
According to Sportsboom via Givemesport, Liverpool are preparing a bid for Rayo Vallecano right-back Andrei Ratiu. The 28-year-old Romanian, who joined Rayo in the same summer Andoni Iraola left for Bournemouth, contributed four La Liga assists and averaged 2.02 dribbles per game last season. Standing at 6ft, he fits the profile of an attack-minded full-back. However, with four years left on his contract, he could cost £25-30m.
Gakpo Hints at System Differences
Cody Gakpo, when asked about his role for the Netherlands compared to Liverpool under Arne Slot, said: "A good question. Obviously it's a little bit different. It's different where the coach wants me to be, the freedom that I have." He stopped short of elaborating. Tottenham are reportedly interested in Gakpo, with a £60m fee potentially enough to secure his transfer.
Other Transfer Round-Up
Harry Wilson has joined Leeds United on a free transfer after his contract expired, turning down Aston Villa and Everton. Liverpool will miss out on a 15% sell-on clause due to the free transfer. Rhys Williams is on trial at New York Red Bulls, while Darwin Nunez has been offered to AC Milan, according to Calciomercato. Manchester United are reportedly eyeing Liverpool U18 prospects Vincent Joseph and Isaac Konde. Craig Bellamy's move to Burnley has collapsed, with both clubs blaming each other. Finally, Luis Diaz won Bayern Munich's goal of the season for his strike against Union Berlin.
