Liverpool are a surprising entrant in the race to sign Monaco striker Kylian Mbappe, according to the Telegraph.
The newspaper name the Merseyside giants as one of three clubs pushing strongly to sign the most in-demand young player in world football
The Telegraph report that Arsenal, who have already bid £87million for Mbappe, and Real Madrid, whose £103million offer has been rejected, are also firmly in the picture.
In an analysis of the 11 biggest unresolved summer transfer sagas, it is said that the “smart money” is on the 18-year-old eventually being lured to Real but predict that he will first spend one more year at the French champions.
Liverpool’s place in the race is a notable shock as their club record signing is that of Mohamed Salah, who was prised from Roma last week for a fee widely reported to be £35million rising to a potential £39million.
Mbappe has progressed through the Monaco ranks to take world football by storm since last autumn, with his brilliant displays as the spearhead of a thrilling front line helping his clinch the Ligue 1 title and reach the Champions League semi-finals.
He demonstrated his immense potential with 26 goals and 14 assists from 44 matches in all competitions, including six in nine Champions League encounters.
For good measure, he also tore the England defenders to shreds as 10-man France emerged victorious with a 3-2 friendly win earlier this month.