Thuram, Previously Linked with Liverpool, Now Up for Grabs at Bargain Price

OGC Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram has resurfaced in the transfer gossip columns after rumored interest from Liverpool last summer failed to materialize. The Frenchman, once touted as a potential addition to Jurgen Klopp’s squad, is now reportedly available for a bargain price.

Last summer, Thuram’s name, along with Manu Kone’s, dominated the transfer speculation surrounding Liverpool. Fans envisioned them as ideal signings to revamp Klopp’s midfield. However, neither player made the move to Anfield, with Liverpool opting for other acquisitions like Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Wataru Endo.

Thuram remained at Nice while Kone, dealing with injuries, stayed put at Borussia Monchengladbach. With Thiago set to depart this summer, Liverpool might once again consider bolstering their midfield options, though potential targets remain uncertain.

French publication Nice-Matin now reports that Nice could be open to selling Thuram for a fee ranging from €15 million (£12.9m) to €20 million (£17.2m), with just one year left on his contract. However, Thuram’s form this season has fallen short of expectations, leading to mixed reception from supporters. Despite this, he has shown signs of improvement towards the end of the campaign.

Thuram has featured predominantly as a No. 8 for Nice this season, making 27 appearances. Additionally, he represented France U23s in two friendlies in March, indicating his potential involvement in the Olympics later this year, which could complicate any potential transfer.

Liverpool’s interest in Thuram last summer waned following the arrival of Szoboszlai, and whether they would revisit the possibility of signing the 23-year-old remains uncertain.

The saga surrounding Thuram’s potential move to Liverpool highlights the unpredictable nature of the transfer market and the complexities involved in player acquisitions. Despite initial interest, factors such as form, contract situations, and competition for places can influence a club’s decision-making process.

As Liverpool prepares for the upcoming transfer window, they may explore various options to reinforce their squad, but whether Thuram fits into their plans remains to be seen. Ultimately, the decision will hinge on multiple factors, including the club’s assessment of their midfield needs and Thuram’s performance trajectory.