Ralf Rangnick says Liverpool-bound Takumi Minamino will be an ideal fit at Anfield

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Reports are strong that Liverpool will complete the signing of RB Salzburg star Takumi Minamino next month.

The Japan international has caught the eye for the Austrian champions this season with some fine performances, and stood out twice against the Reds in the Champions League.

According to The Daily Mail, Liverpool have trumped Manchester United over the 24-year-old, and it is thought the deal will only cost £7.25 million, which is the value of his release clause.

One man who believes it’s a fantastic move for the European champions is Ralf Rangnick, who is Red Bull’s head of sport.

Speaking about the pending transfer, he said (Sky Sports): “You could see he was good on the ball, very technical, good mentality. He is also like many Japanese players, willing to invest in the team’s efforts to win the ball back.

“Of course he had to learn those things tactically, but his willingness and his mentality was already there. He’s not the kind of player to say ‘OK the other team has got the ball so, please let me know once we have the ball so I then can take part in the game again’. Even at the age of 19, you could see he was a good boy.”

TBR’s view – Liverpool are getting a bargain

Assuming the deal goes through as most publications appear to be suggesting now, it looks as though Liverpool are getting themselves a superb player.

It sounds like he is tailor-made to play in a Jurgen Klopp team, and fans are likely going to take to him very quickly if he carries on playing like he has been doing this season.

Once again, Liverpool’s recruitment seems to be absolutely on point.