"World class" striker available on a free transfer next summer - Liverpool could make a move

Liverpool have been linked with the signing of Borussia Monchengladbach forward Marcus Thuram - and the Frenchman could leave on a free transfer this summer.

That is the claim of prominent journalist Fabrizio Romano, who has noted that the player is a 'potential' free agent this summer.

The 25-year-old, who is the son of France legend Lillian Thuram, has netted 10 goals in 15 Bundesliga appearances in this campaign - already the joint-highest seasonal tally of his professional career.

At 6ft 3in, Thuram has incredible pace and power, whilst being effective in physical and aerial situations.

His movement also causes problems for defenders, while he often moves infield to become a more effective presence in matches.

German outlet Fussball Transfers have claimed that Thuram is on Liverpool's summer transfer shortlist, as Jurgen Klopp looks to revamp his squad.

However, they will face strong competition from Bayern Munich, who are also strongly linked with the forward.

Thuram has scored more goals than any Bayern player in the league this term, with ex-Chelsea starlet Jamal Musiala his closest rival on nine strikes.

But Liverpool are on the search for a replacement for current Bavarians star Sadio Mane, and Thuram could fit the bill.

Fabrizio Romano on Marcus Thuram

The Frenchman's contract at Monchengladbach expires next summer, meaning clubs can sign him on a free transfer after that point if he does not agree a new deal with his current club.

Liverpool could even open talks over a pre-contract agreement as early as January, therefore stealing a march on Gladbach's domestic rivals.

Writing as part of his Daily Briefing Substack column for CaughtOffside, Fabrizio Romano said: "I think there will be many rumours around Thuram, as he's a good player available as a potential free agent in the summer.

"I'm told he could really leave on a free transfer, so he'll consider all options in the next months."

That news may come as a major boost to Klopp and the Reds, who could strengthen their squad with a top player without spending a considerable fee to acquire his services.

But they will certainly face a battle to get to that stage for a player that was described as a "world class striker" with a "world class stature" by Wolfsburg sporting director and former Germany international Marcel Schafer in October.