Despite rejection, Liverpool must persist to sign ‘amazing’ talent compared to Steven Gerrard

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Liverpool were once rejected by a player who was compared to legend Steven Gerrard and could now be given the chance to sign him again.

The summer of 2023 was one of rebuilding for Jurgen Klopp, who embarked on what would prove to be his final transfer window at Anfield.

Several regular starters, who became the face of Klopp’s era, were sold, as Jordan Henderson and Fabinho packed their bags for Saudi Arabia.

While three more midfielders would leave the club, including cult-hero James Milner, the Reds were left with the task of building a new-look midfield.

All supporters are aware of the players who would arrive at Anfield that summer, but one player who would end up rejecting the move now has another opportunity to join the champions.

Liverpool should go all-in for Khephren Thuram

Khephren Thuram was one of what felt like 100 midfield players linked with a move to Liverpool when he plied his trade at Nice.

Indeed, Klopp wanted Thuram at the Reds, but the midfielder chose to reject the German’s advances, opting to stay in France for one more season before joining Serie A giants Juventus in 2024.

The 24-year-old notched four goals and five assists in his maiden campaign in Turin, which has attracted significant interest from the Premier League.

TBR Football understands Liverpool have enquired about Thuram alongside the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur, but have been informed that the Old Lady have no intentions to sell.

Furthermore, Thuram has been likened to Reds legend Steven Gerrard, with ex-forward Jermaine Pennant making the comparison in reaction to the initial links live on talkSPORT in 2023.

“There is talk of getting Khephren Thuram from Nice. If that happens, it would be an amazing signing. Apparently, talks are advanced.

“He’s like a box-to-box defender. He scores goals. And he can go past players. He can have the ball at his feet, be able to go past players, and then score goals. This is what this guy can do.

“I am not going to put him to a Steven Gerrard because he was one of his own but, if I can say it, of that mould. He is one of those players. Back to the goal, he can skip a player. He’s technically gifted. Amazing. Great athlete, strong and quick. And also got an eye for assists and goals.

“I think that would go amazingly well alongside a Mac Allister. They will play off each other. If you then throw in Trent Alexander-Arnold, then that’s a strong midfield.”

Khephren Thuram is a similar profile to Ryan Gravenberch

Outside of Ryan Gravenberch, who stands at 6ft 3in, the Reds lack serious muscle in the engine room, and Thuram, who is 6ft 4in tall, could be the perfect solution.

Since the beginning of last season, Gravenberch has been comfortably Liverpool’s and arguably the Premier League’s best midfield player, and Thuram is almost a carbon copy of the Dutchman.

With Arne Slot lacking defensive resilience in his new-look side, it is clear that he lacks the midfield options needed to address the problems, as TBR Football previously revealed the Reds want to sign another midfielder in the upcoming transfer windows.

Juventus may not be willing to sell, but Liverpool want to buy, and there may be no better option in Europe better suited to their needs.