Liverpool to battle Real Madrid for Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare
According to Spanish outlet Sport (h/t Express), Liverpool are set to battle it out with Real Madrid for Lille’s 21-year-old defensive midfielder Boubakary Soumare.
A rising star at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy, the Frenchman has made 30 appearances so far this season. His performances have seen him capture the attention of several European heavyweights with Chelsea and Newcastle United also in the mix.
The Reds were keen on bringing in the player last summer. Unfortunately, a deal could not be worked out. The player’s decision to stay in France has been vindicated by his impressive displays.
Soumare came through the Paris Saint-Germain’s youth system before joining Lille in 2017. The former Paris Saint-Germain youngster has made 69 appearances for Lille, scoring a goal and an assist. Today he is one of the first names on the teamsheet for Lille and has showcased his talents to a wider audience with his performance in the UEFA Champions League.
A dynamic entity!
Standing at 6’2″, Soumare is technically gifted and adds both power and poise to the midfield. His ability to play as a box to box midfielder adds to the dynamism he brings onto the pitch.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is an admirer of the Frenchman. The German is likely to make Soumare a priority signing once the transfer window opens.
Valued at £35million during the January transfer window, the coronavirus pandemic could lead to the price falling even lower. This can, however, draw more clubs into the fray given Soumare’s undoubted quality.
A ‘Real’ rebuild
Real are on the lookout for a replacement for the ageing Luka Modric. They have identified Soumare as one of the players who can replace the Croatian in the long-term. (h/t Express)
The 34-year-old is entering the last year of his contract. Real could attempt to sell him this summer rather than risk losing him for free at the end of next season. Lille boss Christophe Galtier had recently admitted that he doesn’t know what the future will hold for the youngster.
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Soumare is one Europe’s promising youngsters. His ability on the ball and dynamism definitely packs a punch and can add a lot to the Reds midfield. Whether the player ends up at Liverpool or not remains to be seen.
