Liverpool FC transfer news: Reds contact Nicolas Pepe’s agent over move

Football journalist Duncan Castles has claimed that Liverpool are in talks to sign Nicolas Pepe from Lille. The Ivorian has been excellent for Lille this season, helping them to second place in Ligue 1.

The 24-year-old scored 22 times and provided 11 assists in the league this season, and was in great form for Les Dogues last time too.

Castles was speaking on the Transfer Window podcast (h/t Daily Post) and claimed that Lille are awaiting a bid for the Ivorian winger:

“From what I’ve been told, Liverpool have been in contact with Pepe’s agent to discuss a deal, his interest in coming and what it would cost to come. Lille are aware of this and are waiting for a bid.”

The journalist added that Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in the 24-year-old but Lille want a huge sum for the attacker:

“Lille have been very clear he’s available for sale and the asking price is €80m (£70m). They would love to have a bid come in from Liverpool and United to get an auction going.”

Klopp to bolster the attack further?

The Reds already have a wonderful attack and there really isn’t a lot that can be done to upgrade the first-team. What we do need is more quality off the bench and players that will fight with the first-team for starting places.

Pepe is a wonderful talent and has thrived in Ligue 1 for two seasons. The Ivorian would provide cover to Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, and has the potential to develop further under Jurgen Klopp.

Lille want big money for the player and it will be interesting to see if the Reds land him.

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Liverpool didn’t say much regarding their summer business last time around, but we ended up making three big signings before the start of the season.