BREAKING NEWS: Confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are close to completing the transfer of Real Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni after agreeing deal in principle with Real Madrid.

Liverpool is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to sign Aurelien Tchouameni from Real Madrid in the upcoming January transfer window, according to TeamTalk. The 24-year-old French midfielder could soon be heading to Anfield after Liverpool seemingly outbid Premier League rival Chelsea for his signature.

Sources indicate that Liverpool’s offer for Tchouameni could reach €80 million, with negotiations nearly complete, paving the way for his move in January. The club has made securing a deep-lying midfielder their top priority after missing out on Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad during the summer.

Real Madrid is reportedly willing to sell Tchouameni to fund reinforcements for their defense following the ACL injuries to key players Eder Militao and Dani Carvajal. Madrid is also looking for a more creative, ball-playing midfielder, believing Tchouameni’s style doesn’t fully align with their need for a player who can control and build play from deep. Since Toni Kroos’s retirement, they’ve lacked a central midfielder with strong playmaking abilities, with Rodri from Manchester City initially considered as a replacement before his own ACL injury.

Tchouameni joined Madrid from AS Monaco for €100 million two years ago, making 102 appearances, scoring three goals, and contributing to seven major trophies. Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League under new manager Arne Slot, hopes that securing Tchouameni will boost their chances in the title race.