Takumi Minamino transfer hint dropped as Liverpool exit draws nearer

AS Monaco coach Philippe Clement has dropped a huge hint that Takumi Minamino's transfer from Liverpool is edging closer to completion

The Japan international joined the Reds in January 2020 from Red Bull Salzburg, following two impressive performances against Jurgen Klopp's men in the Champions League.

However, in the seasons since, for a number of reasons, life at Anfield has at times been difficult for Minamino and the Reds with the Liverpool manager being unable to satisfy his craved game time.

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Earlier this week, the ECHO reported that a deal, with a fee up to £15.5m, had been agreed between Liverpool and Monaco for the services of the 27-year-old - with a medical pencilled in at a later date due to Minamino currently residing in Japan during the off-season.

And now, the coach of the Ligue 1 outfit has dropped the biggest hint yet that a deal for the forward is edging closer to competition as RMC Sport have quoted him talking about what qualities Minamino will bring to France.

Clement said: "I'm very happy, I've known him for a long time. He was very high on our list. Everyone here is convinced that he has the qualities to bring something to the team."

Minamino was a key figure in Liverpool's domestic cup triumphs last season as he finished as the club's top-scorer in both the League Cup and FA Cup.

Though his performances in both competitions failed to earn him extra game time in the Premier League, even in the absence of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane as they took part in the Africa Cup of Nations, as he only accumulated 176 minutes during the Reds' title chase.

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