Rennes forward Martin Terrier could be targeted by Liverpool as a replacement for Sadio Mane, while Tottenham have not lost sight of a wing target despite the arrival of Ivan Perisic – all in Wednesday’s transfer gossip.
LIVERPOOL LOOK AT MARTIN TERRIER
Martin Terrier could be the man to replace Sadio Mane in the Liverpool attack, according to a report.
Mane is entering the final year of his contract at Liverpool, who look likely to lose him. The forward is reportedly ready to pack his bags after six seasons with the club.
Bayern Munich are believed to be in strong contention to sign the Senegal international. He will be a tough player to replace.
Liverpool already brought in Luis Diaz in January, perhaps with a view to Mane’s future exit. However, they continue to be linked with new reinforcements, despite Diaz’s good impression.
According to the Daily Mirror, one man they could sign is Rennes forward Terrier. The 25-year-old was prolific this season, with 21 goals from 37 Ligue 1 games.
Of his goals, 19 were from open play. The comparison made by the Mirror is that Ballon d’Or favourite Karim Benzema only scored one more from open play in his league than Terrier this season.
Like Mane, he drifted between a left-wing position and a centre-forward one. Hence, he has similar attributes to the former Southampton star.
The Mirror note that Terrier is not a household name on the international stage. Indeed, he is still awaiting his first senior cap for France.
Martin Terrier could fit Liverpool transfer policy
Yet that could play into Liverpool’s hands if they want to make an under-the-radar signing. Terrier would seem to fit into the policy they have utilised in recent years.
Rennes signed him for just over £10m in 2020. His value has likely increased since then, while his contract lasts until 2025.
Tottenham have also been linked with the attacker. However, Liverpool could be an attractive destination for the former Lille and Lyon man.
They won two trophies this season and pushed the winners of the Premier League and Champions League close. While Spurs did secure a return to the top-four, Liverpool are ahead of them at this moment in time.
Hence, if he feels he could make an impact at Anfield, maybe Liverpool would be the more attractive destination.
PERISIC SIGNING DOESN’T STOP TOTTENHAM PURSUIT OF KOSTIC
Tottenham may have signed Ivan Perisic to strengthen out wide, but they remain in the hunt for Filip Kostic too.
So claim The Times, which means Spurs could sign two players for the same left-wing-back role this summer.
Perisic is likely to be used as a wing-back by Antonio Conte, who would have the same plan for Eintracht Frankfurt star Kostic.
The Serbia international is about to enter the final year of his contract in Germany. After providing 15 assists this season, he would add further creativity to the Tottenham ranks.
Kostic could compete with Perisic in a squad battle that would likely spell bad news for Sergio Reguilon or Ryan Sessegnon. Alternatively, it may allow Perisic to play further forward when required.
After securing their return to Champions League football, Tottenham will want to strengthen all across the board for Conte. It seems Kostic could remain on their radar.
LEEDS AND MAN CITY IN KEEPER BATTLE
Celtic goalkeeping starlet Rory Mahady could make a move south of the border, with three Premier League clubs said to be interested.
Mahady can sign a professional contract with Celtic when he turns 16 this year. However, they face a fight to keep him.
According to the Daily Record, Leeds are long-term admirers of the young goalkeeper. They could try to lure him to their ranks.
However, they now face competition from Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur, who have similar plans.
Any taker would have to pay Celtic compensation for the teenager. However, they could be investing in someone who can develop in the future.
Mahady has already played at under-17 level for Scotland. The Record describe him as one of Britain’s best young goalkeepers.