Liverpool securing the signature of AS Monaco midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni would be ‘another big statement signing’, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Reds have pulled off many impressive acquisitions in recent years, adding the likes of Mohamed Salah, Alisson and Virgil van Dijk to their ranks, and the 22-year-old could be added to their illustrious list of stars.

What is the latest news involving Tchouameni?

According to French journalist Santi Aouna, Liverpool are targeting Tchouameni ahead of the summer transfer window and contact has already ‘been initiated’ between the relevant parties.

The Daily Mail have since provided an update on the France international’s situation, confirming that the Reds are interested in his services while claiming Real Madrid ‘are the favourites for his signature’.

Tchouameni, who is valued at £36m by Transfermarkt, has been in outstanding form for the principality club this season despite their struggles for large parts of the campaign.

As per FBref, the 6 foot 2 ace has ranked in the 98^th percentile for interceptions, 87^th for aerial duels won and 85^th for tackles amongst players in his position over the last year.

However, Tchouameni has also displayed his ability with the ball at his feet in recent times, also ranking in the 87^th percentile for total shots and 83^rd for progressive passes.

The defensive-minded dynamo has established himself as one of the most promising young prospects in Ligue 1 since arriving at Monaco from boyhood club Bordeaux back in January 2020 and appears set to take the next step in his career.

What has O’Rourke said about Tchouameni?

O’Rourke believes fending off the extensive competition for Tchouameni would represent another significant purchase for Klopp during his Anfield reign.

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He told GiveMeSport: “It would be another big statement signing from Liverpool if they're able to sign Aurelien Tchouameni from Monaco, he’s a really top young player already playing in the France team as well.

“Lots of clubs have been linked to him, the likes of Manchester City, Manchester United, Chelsea, all the top clubs across Europe. So, if Liverpool were able to sneak in there and lure him to Anfield, it would be a big signing for Jurgen Klopp.”

What is Liverpool’s current midfield situation?

Fabinho is currently the only natural holding midfielder on Liverpool’s books, while 36-year-old James Milner is deep into the twilight of his outstanding career.

Jordan Henderson and Thiago are also reaching the end of their peak years, while Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have been injury-prone throughout their time with the six-time European champions.

Additional cover and competition in the engine room may be high up on Klopp’s wish list for the summer then as he seeks to finally replace Gini Wijnaldum.