Liverpool transfer failure to work in their favour with Minamino exit first of five to take shape

Liverpool’s disappointment at missing out on Aurelien Tchouameni could be alleviated after Monaco emerged as the primary contender to sign Takumi Minamino.

The Reds had identified Tchouameni as an ideal candidate to bolster their midfield. However, when push came to shove, it was Real Madrid who succeeded in signing the French destroyer.

Tchouameni netted Monaco £68m with the deal potentially rising to £85m. While Liverpool won’t be pleased to have missed out, the fact Tchouameni did move has left Monaco with an influx of cash.

According to the Times, the French outfit may put some of those funds to quick use by signing Takumi Minamino.

Liverpool won’t stand in the Japan forward’s way if a £17m offer arrives. Leeds Utd and Southampton were among those exploring a move. Football Insider recently claimed Wolves has surged into the lead with Bruno Lage’s side prepared to stump up the full asking price.

But per the Times’ Paul Joyce, it is Monaco who are now ‘leading the chase’.

Aside from the fact they can now match Liverpool’s valuation with ease, Monaco have a distinct advantage over their English counterparts.

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