Report: Liverpool hope to hijack Chelsea move for ‘special’ player likened to Sadio Mane

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Liverpool are ‘far from giving up’ in the race for RB Leipzig star Christopher Nkunku, according to Fussball Transfers.

The Reds have been linked with the France international for a number of months now.

However, Chelsea now appear to be closing in on a move for Nkunku ahead of Liverpool and other suitors.

The Daily Mail has reported that the 24-year-old held a ‘secret medical’ in Frankfurt last month.

Todd Boehly is believed to be ready to trigger Nkunku’s £52.8million release clause.

However, the Anfield outfit isn’t necessarily out of the race just yet.

Journalist Fabrice Hawkins stated on Twitter that ‘Liverpool are there too’ when covering the news today.

And Fussball Transfers have backed up Hawkins’ report.

The German outlet, via Sport Witness, claim that other big names in Europe are ‘still hoping’ to sign Nkunku.

Liverpool are one of them, and Real Madrid are also in pursuit, claimed the report.

Liverpool and Chelsea target Nkunku – factfile

Nkunku enjoyed a breakout campaign last season for Leipzig.

He scored 35 goals and set up 20 more in 52 appearances in all competitions.

Nkunku’s efforts saw him win the Bundesliga Player of the Year accolade.

The ‘special‘ forward also earned himself a call-up to the France squad, and has won eight caps to date.

Football.london wrote about Nkunku earlier this year amid links with Arsenal.

‘Nkunku can play as an attacking midfielder or as a second striker in a two up front, bringing some versatility to the table,’ they wrote.

‘The Frenchman’s style of play allows him to work well in tight areas, often disrupting the opposition with his speed of movement, passing and dribbling ability.’

In terms of style of play, fans on Twitter have compared Nkunku to the likes of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Thierry Henry.

Liverpool may not be in position to swoop for Nkunku – TBR View

Liverpool have struggled post-Mane, with Darwin Nunez not exactly hitting the ground running at Anfield.

But Nkunku may be a step too far now for the Reds.

Aside from the fact Chelsea appear to have stolen a march on their competitors, Liverpool have also committed a lot of money on Nunez.

Would they be willing to pay another £53m-odd for another forward?