Liverpool target Kephren Thuram as cheaper Barella alternative

Liverpool have identified OGC Nice’s Kephren Thuram as an alternative to Inter Milan midfielder Nicolo Barella, according to Inter Live.

The Reds are looking to rebuild their midfield in the summer transfer window. The overhaul has been long overdue.

However, it won’t be straightforward for Liverpool to operate on a strict budget without the assurance of Champions League football income.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp earmarked Barella as a summer target.

They started laying the groundwork, but the Italian’s price became a stumbling block.

Inter value their 2020 European Championship winner at €70 million. He has a deal with the Nerazzurri until 2026, so they are not worried as they have the leverage in negotiations.

Barella has been instrumental for Inter since joining from Cagliari in 2019. He was close to joining Chelsea under Maurizio Sarri, but a deal collapsed.

The 26-year-old has helped the Milan club win the league title, Italian Cup and two Italian Super Cup titles.

The Sardinian midfielder has bagged eight goals and eight assists in 42 appearances this season.

However, Liverpool have turned to Thuram, with the Reds unsure about splashing the cash on Barella.

The son of the legendary Lilian Thuram and brother of Borussia Monchengladbach’s Marcus Thuram is having an impressive season in France.

Thuram lines up from the left side of midfield under Didier Digard. He uses quick feet and incredible upper body strength to zoom past and muscle away the opposition.

The 22-year-old has two goals and eight assists in all competitions and received a call-up to play for the France national team.

Nice value Thuram at around €32 million, and Liverpool will move for him instead of Barella at this price.

Liverpool have other midfielders within their sights, including Chelsea duo Mason Mount and Conor Gallagher.

They pulled out of a deal for Borussia Dortmund’s Jude Bellingham due to the price and are looking for moderately priced midfield reinforcements.