LIVERPOOL have emerged as favourites to sign exciting Lille talent Sofiane Boufal, according to a number of reports.
The 22-year-old has been watched by the Reds on a number of occasions during what has been an impressive breakthrough season in Ligue 1 for the attacking midfielder.
The Express suggest Boufal is viewed by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp as an alternative to the ‘dithering’ Mario Gotze whose future at Bayern Munich remains up in the air.
After joining Lille from fellow French club Angers for £2.7million in the 2015 January transfer window, Boufal has flourished and was a key player for his side last season with 12 goals and four assists in all competitions, that form earning him his first cap for Morocco at the start of this year.
According to the Express, Boufal is keen to perform on a bigger stage outside France but the Daily Star claim he has his mind set on playing European football – something Liverpool cannot offer next season.
The Reds will face competition from Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund for Boufal’s signature, with a transfer fee in the vicinity of £16m likely to be required.
Check out Football Advisor for profitable betting predictions
