Liverpool have stepped up their pursuit of RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande, according to journalist David Ornstein.
The Reds have informed the Bundesliga club they are prepared to put together a package worth close to €100 million to bring the teenager to Anfield.
Liverpool have increased the amount they are willing to spend following earlier discussions with Leipzig.
They are determined to sign one of Europe’s brightest young attacking talents before the transfer window closes.
Leipzig are reluctant to sanction the 19-year-old’s departure. The German club are keen to tie the Ivory Coast international to a new long-term contract and value him at more than €130m.
Liverpool are confident of getting a deal over the line after signing Victor Munoz.
Paris Saint-Germain are interested in Diomande but have yet to submit a formal offer.
Liverpool are ahead of PSG in discussions over personal terms, placing them in pole position. They are also assessing alternative options if negotiations fail to reach a breakthrough.
Yankuba Minteh, Said El Mala, and Matias Fernandez-Pardo are among the players being considered as contingency plans.
Diomande enjoyed a breakthrough season in Germany, registering 12 goals and nine assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances.
Renowned for his explosive pace and direct style, the teenager has emerged as one of Europe’s most coveted young forwards.
He is currently representing the Ivory Coast at the World Cup, where he started his nation’s opening group-stage match against Ecuador.
The Liverpool target tortured Ecuador. He won 11 out of 14 duels, completed four out of six dribbles, created one big chance and played five key passes.
