According to the latest reports, Liverpool have contacted Nicolas Pepe’s representatives to discuss a potential move this summer.
The Lille winger is in high demand after his standout season in the Ligue 1 with 20 goals and 12 assists in 36 overall games.
Prestigious journalist, Duncan Castles reported earlier on the Transfer Podcast, “Nicolas Pepe – we discussed him last week as a player Manchester United had been recommended to sign last summer.
“Liverpool have contacted Lille to ask… what the cost will be. That contact has not been direct, it’s been done through agents. Liverpool are not anywhere near as advanced in this pursuit who I think would very much fit Liverpool’s attack and be a good alternative to any of their first-choice from three players.
“The asking price at present is €80m (£69m) – I think they feel they might be able to get beyond that if they can get Liverpool, Chelsea – who have also been watching Liverpool games recently – Paris St-Germain and Bayern Munich.
“Bayern Munich are in pole position to get him having made a €60m (£52m) offer. That’s not been accepted, but I think there’s a good chance they’ll increase their bid.”
Jurgen Klopp could use Pepe as a competitor for one of the top three spots but it is unlikely that the Reds would shell out this much cash for a rotational option.
They already have a world beater in Mohamed Salah who is being heavily linked to Real Madrid just like in the previous summer. If the Egyptian were to move, Pepe could be the quality replacement on the right flank.
See Also: The Only Thing Liverpool Can Do To Upstage Manchester City
