Liverpool are reportedly leading the race to sign Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye, with the French champions already announcing his potential replacement.
Mbaye emerged as a surprise Liverpool target this week as sporting director Richard Hughes continues exploring options to strengthen Andoni Iraola’s attacking depth.
The 18-year-old is available for between €40million (£34.3m) and €50million (£42.8m) this summer and is reportedly open to a move to Anfield.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are now “leading the race” to sign Ibrahim Mbaye ahead of fellow suitors Bayer Leverkusen.
Speaking on GiveMeSport’s ‘Market Madness’ podcast, Romano said: “There is genuine interest in Ibrahim Mbaye, there is a conversation with the new agent of the player, Jorge Mendes.
“Bayer Leverkusen were pushing, but now Liverpool are leading the race. Let’s see, financially, if they can reach an agreement with PSG.”
L’Equipe reports that Leverkusen had an offer rejected, while RB Leipzig’s interest cooled after it became clear Yan Diomande would not be joining PSG.
Bayern Munich, Manchester City, Manchester United, Aston Villa and Chelsea are also said to be monitoring the winger. However, journalist Loïc Tanzi claims that “two projects stand out: Liverpool and Dortmund.”
Borussia Dortmund, though, are prioritising a move for FC Köln winger Said El Mala, who has also been linked with Liverpool. Sky Germany reports that the Bundesliga club are preparing a third bid worth €40million (£34.3m).
Liverpool have previously been described as Mbaye’s preferred destination, and a move to Anfield would make sense given the club’s need for greater depth in the wide attacking positions.
Having only turned 18 in January, Mbaye has already made 42 senior appearances for PSG and earned 15 caps for Senegal.
He would not need to be registered as a senior player in the Premier League and would qualify as homegrown after his 21st birthday.
Although primarily a right winger, Mbaye is also comfortable on the left, with Iraola placing a high value on attacking versatility.
PSG, meanwhile, have made their plans for the teenager clear, with another rotational role expected under Luis Enrique if he stays. The Ligue 1 champions also confirmed the signing of Maghnes Akliouche on Thursday.
Akliouche completed a €50million (£42.8m) move to PSG despite reported interest from Liverpool, a deal that could pave the way for Mbaye’s departure while also boosting the Reds’ hopes of signing Bradley Barcola.
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