Liverpool transfer target Manu Kone was left on crutches after sustaining a knee injury during France's latest game at the under-21 European Championships.
Les Blues booked their place in the knockout phase of the competition after earning a comprehensive 4-1 win over Switzerland yesterday evening, ensuring they will now face Ukraine in the quarter-finals on Sunday.
One player they will not be able to call upon for this fixture is Kone, who was forced to leave the field of play in the 19th minute of last night's win after a knock to the knee. The Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches, suggesting this setback could prove to be serious.
Kone had started the Switzerland showdown alongside fellow Reds target Khephren Thuram, who lasted for 70 minutes before being replaced by Joris Chotard. Other players of interest to Liverpool, Ryan Gravenberch and Gabri Veiga, have also been competing at the U21s Euros in a blow to the Reds' hopes of getting players through the doors before Jurgen Klopp's side report for pre-season on July 8.
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An injury to Kone is set to further complicate the possibility of Liverpool making a move for the 22-year-old, who could now be facing a spell on the sidelines. Offering an update on the situation, L'Equipe have reported the former Toulouse star will 'undergo medical examinations' today to discover the extent of his injury.
Liverpool's only signing of the summer remains Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton, who was recruited as part of a £35m transfer deal. The Argentine international will wear the No.10 shirt, last worn by Sadio Mane.
