Liverpool are ready to steal the march on Manchester United to sign RB Salzburg star Takumi Minamino.
The Japan international impressed during his two Champions League group stage outings against Liverpool, and has a release clause of just £7.25million.
Jurgen Klopp is driving the pursuit of the 24-year-old who scored at Anfield in October during the Reds' thrilling 4-3 win.
Follow all the reaction to Liverpool's interest in Minamino HERE
Minamino, who has scored nine times in 22 appearances this term also caught the eye on Tuesday night with another glimmering performance as the Reds booked their place in the last 16 with a 2-0 victory.
The ECHO understands Man United are one of a number of clubs reportedly interested in acquiring the versatile winger along with some Bundesliga and Serie A sides.
But the Reds have stolen a march on their rivals and are prepared to activate the release clause in the winter.
Liverpool value Minamino at around treble of the release clause asking price, so this could be a huge steal for Liverpool in the transfer market and could help bolster their pursuit of a maiden Premier League title.
