Liverpool plan to challenge Arsenal as the race for Lille star Nicolas Pepe took a twist.
The Gunners thought they were at the front of the queue for the talented striker.
But the 23-year-old has caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs this season after scoring 19 Ligue 1 goals.
Pepe is second in the scoring charts to PSG superstar Kylian Mbappe and his form in front of goal has taken the club to new heights.
Lille's president now accepts they can't keep the star at the club thanks to the level of interest from other clubs.
Gary Neville rates Liverpool's chances in potential semi-final with Barcelona
Liverpool are one of them and are willing to out-bid Arsenal , according to L'Equipe.
The French-born Ivorian is in high demand but had a £68.7million price tag in January.
Lille president Gerard Lopez told Telefoot he expects the player to move on.
"Four or five players will be leaving this summer,” he said.
“All clubs are forced to balance their accounts except perhaps one. I would say yes, it is sure he [Pepe] will leave.
Jurgen Klopp reveals the biggest rivalry within Liverpool squad
“He enters a price range that can no longer be paid. There is a career choice to make for him, I think he will have the choice."
Liverpool are ready to trigger Julian Brandt's contract release clause, according to Sport Bild.
The Bayern Leverkusen forward has attracted some serious attention from across Europe in recent months, but the Reds are ready to act fastest when the transfer window opens.
Brandt can be released from his contract for just £21.5million - a tiny fee considering the calibre of the player and his potential.
Lionel Messi gives view on potential Liverpool semi after 'spectacular' night
With forwards linked, it appears Liverpool may have put Timo Werner to the back of their minds.
Leipzig chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff says the striker won't sign a new deal.
He told Sky Sports: "It's well known that we want to extend with him, but he's signalled to us that he does not want to sign a new contract.
"We need to see what's right for us and for Timo."
Werner is believed to be available for around £35million
