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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Daniel Orme

Liverpool urged to hijack Man Utd transfer to land Sadio Mane replacement

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Mark Bosnich has urged Liverpool to make a move for Red Devils target Christopher Nkunku as they search for a Sadio Mane replacement.

The Senegalese forward has seemingly made the decision to quit Merseyside this summer with just one year remaining on his contract. There is, of course, still plenty of work to do in order for him to secure an exit.

The Reds have reportedly set a £42.5million asking price for Mane and Jurgen Klopp's side will only be open to selling if they find a suitable replacement for the former Southampton forward. Ex-United stopper Bosnich has suggested that in-demand forward Nkunku could be an ideal option to arrive at Anfield having enjoyed a stunning season with German outfit RB Leipzig.

Speaking with Sky Sports, the former Australian international said: “I was going to say that’s the $64million (£51million) question but it might actually cost a bit more than that. I was thinking about that today and watching from the Champions League, there’s the boy from Leipzig I think, Nkunku.

“He was somebody who really stood out for me. I know Leipzig dropped down into the Europa League and were knocked out in the semi-finals by Rangers but he was exceptional and that’s what I was thinking about today when I was thinking about if Mane leaves, what to do and that’s the one that came to mind for me.”

Nkunku has certainly been one of the stars of European football this term. He was named the Bundesliga Player of the Season having netted 35 goals and provided 20 assists in all competitions.

Christopher Nkunku has enjoyed a stunning season with RB Leipzig (Getty Images)

Would Christopher Nkunku be a good signing for Liverpool? Have your say in the comments below.

Outgoing United boss Ralf Rangnick was reported to be a big fan of the Frenchman, only to be told that the club had not conducted in-depth analysis on the player ahead of the January transfer window. However, it has since been suggested that the Red Devils have engaged in discussions with Nkunku’s representatives following the arrival of Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Amid interest in his services, the former Paris Saint-Germain star has finally had his say over what his future could hold. Ahead of France’s Nations League clash with Denmark, he suggested that a return to the Parc des Princes could potentially be on his agenda.

"Paris, I've always said it, it's my home, my heart club," said Nkunku. "I don't close any doors. Everything is possible in football.

"It's flattering to have the biggest clubs in the world interested in me. But it's also flattering that Leipzig is doing everything to keep me. We are in June, and I am focused on this gathering."

Nkunku has two years remaining on his contract at the Red Bull Arena having arrived from the French capital in the 2019 summer transfer window.

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