Liverpool are reportedly nearing a deal to sign Real Madrid’s Aurelien Tchouameni in the upcoming January transfer window, according to TeamTalk. The 24-year-old France international could soon be headed to Anfield as Liverpool has seemingly outbid Premier League rival Chelsea in pursuit of the talented midfielder.

Reports suggest that Liverpool’s offer for Tchouameni could ultimately reach €80 million. TeamTalk assures that negotiations are nearly finalized, setting the stage for Tchouameni’s move to Liverpool once the winter window opens in January. Liverpool has made signing a deep-lying midfielder their top priority, after missing out on Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad in the summer.

Real Madrid appears open to parting with Tchouameni to fund defensive reinforcements after losing key players Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal to ACL injuries. Additionally, Madrid is reportedly seeking a more creative and ball-playing midfielder to replace Tchouameni, feeling his skill set may not fully match their needs in controlling and constructing play from deep. Since the retirement of Toni Kroos, the Spanish club has lacked a central midfielder with strong playmaking abilities, initially considering Manchester City’s Rodri as a potential replacement until his ACL injury ruled him out.

Tchouameni joined Real Madrid from AS Monaco two years ago in a €100 million move and has since made 102 appearances, scoring three goals and helping Madrid secure seven major trophies.

Liverpool, currently sitting atop the Premier League standings under new manager Arne Slot, hopes that securing Tchouameni could be a decisive factor in their push for the league title.