Liverpool's Aurelien Tchouameni setback far from biggest transfer problem this summer

A personal intervention from Jurgen Klopp could not deter Aurelien Tchouameni from his Real Madrid dream.

The Liverpool boss reportedly called the France international in an attempt to convince the in-demand midfielder to make the move to Anfield this summer. However, Tchouameni is now said to have reached a verbal agreement to join the Champions League holders in a deal worth in excess of £85 million.

The Monaco star was a name linked with Liverpool for much of the season, with a host of Europe's elite including Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain also credited with an interest in the 22-year-old. Tchouameni made 50 appearances in all competitions for the Ligue One side this season, and has already earned 10 caps for his country after only making his senior debut in September last year.

Tchouameni's snub will prove a setback for Liverpool in a window where the Reds have clearly identified a new central midfielder as a priority. James Milner has agreed a contract extension, but reports suggest the club are open to offers for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with the England international entering the final year of his deal.

Barcelona wonderkid Gavi and Leeds United stalwart Kalvin Phillips are the latest names linked to potentially fill the midfield void. But with Real's interest making a move for Tchouameni look something of an ambitious long shot, Liverpool have a far more pressing transfer priority to address.

Sadio Mane's future has dominated the headlines since the Champions League final defeat, with the Senegal international seemingly set on a new challenge this summer. The 30-year-old has enjoyed six successful seasons on Merseyside, but is now angling for an exit with just one year left on his contract.

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