Liverpool's midfield department has suffered from a number of issues this season, but absences rank at the very top of the list.
Players such as Thiago Alcantara, Naby Keita, Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott have missed plenty of matches due to injuries, with positive COVID-19 cases also forcing Fabinho to spend time on the sidelines.
The Reds are understandably looking to bolster their midfield ahead of next season, with reports suggesting that AS Monaco's Aurelien Tchouameni is on the club's shortlist.
Due to turn 22 at the end of the month, Tchouameni has experienced a rapid rise in France to the extent that several of Europe's heavyweight clubs are rumoured to be tracking him.
READ MORE: Liverpool have golden transfer chance to sign ideal midfielder for free
READ MORE: Liverpool team news hint for FA Cup as 'crazy' claim made over training
He's been strongly linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid in recent times, which is a testament to his development in Ligue 1.
Since joining Monaco from Bordeaux in January 2020, Tchouameni has showcased impressive availability having featured in all but three of his team's league matches dating back to the beginning of last season.
He's always on the pitch, and his contributions - particularly without the ball - indicate why he's always deserving of a starting role.
The Frenchman ranks third in Ligue 1 for tackles and interceptions at the moment with a total of 104 for the current campaign, and he placed joint-top of the division by the same numbers last season.
His ability to read plays and break up opposition moves is elite despite his age. In fact, Tchouameni has averaged roughly the same number of tackles and interceptions on a per-90 basis as N'Golo Kante dating back to the beginning of last season.
He's accustomed to playing as part of a midfield two in France - much like Fabinho before Liverpool signed him - which suggests that he would have to adjust at Anfield unless Jurgen Klopp has plans to change his system.
Alongside his defensive work, Tchouameni is also capable on the ball. He's relaxed in possession, able to cover extensive ground and offers a fair amount of progression towards goal, chipping in with four league assists last season.
There are few questions marks attached to whether Tchouameni is good enough for a top European outfit. Instead, doubts surround whether Liverpool could acquire his services ahead of other potential suitors.
As well as having to beat competitors to his signature, the Reds would have to pay a hefty fee to sign him, with a £42m fee having been touted, although he will enter the final two years of his contract this summer, which bodes well for a transfer.
If Liverpool manage to pick him up in the coming months, Tchouameni will give Klopp's midfield department a timely and momentous boost.
