Liverpool are set to beat Premier League rivals Manchester United to the signing of Salzburg midfielder Takumi Minamino in January.
The Reds are confident of landing the Japan international after discovering a £7.25m clause in the 24-year-old’s deal.
Minamino impressed in both matches for Salzburg against Liverpool in the Champions League group stage, and Jurgen Klopp believes he would be an ideal addition to his squad as they target glory at home and abroad in the New Year.
Minamino can play anywhere across the frontline, as well as in midfield, and would be eligible to play for a new team in the knockout stages of the Champions League after Salzburg’s demotion to the Europa League– which Liverpool secured with a 2-0 victory on Tuesday night.
The Reds have accelerated their interest having discovered Manchester United are also interested, as well as a host of Bundesliga sides including Dortmund and RB Leipzig. There is also interest from Italy, where Juve and Roma have made enquiries.
It is reported that sporting director Michael Edwards believes Minamino to be worth more than treble his release clause, and Liverpool believe they are now leading the race thanks to the work put in by recruitment staff to unearth that clause. A deal could even be completed as soon as the January window opens.
Liverpool expect to allow both Rhian Brewster and Curtis Jones to leave Anfield on loan in January, with the club eager for the teenage stars to pick up experience.
Swansea are interested in signing both. The Welsh outfit are managed by former England under-17 coach Steve Cooper, who has worked with both players, although the Reds would want reassurances about playing time.
Both Jones and Brewster are set to play for Liverpool in the Carabao Cup quarter-final at Aston Villa next week, and Jones has impressed Klopp and his staff with his development in the last one year.
The 19-year-old made his Premier League debut against Bournemouth last week and was on the bench for the victory at Salzburg in midweek.
