Liverpool have reportedly suffered a blow in the pursuit of Inter Milan forward Marcus Thuram.
The Reds were heavily linked to the 27-year-old during the winter transfer window, with the player supposedly on a five-man shortlist for Arne Slot's side.
With Mohamed Salah firing on all cylinders this term, it is hard to argue that Liverpool are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements over the summer.
That being said, the Reds were dealt a setback during their top-flight title charge on Wednesday night, when they were forced to share the points with local rivals Everton in the Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.
After collecting a respectable point at the home of the Toffees, Liverpool have moved seven points ahead of second-placed Arsenal in the Premier League table.
© Imago
Liverpool suffer Thuram contract blow?
According to Italian outlet Calciomercato, Liverpool and other potential suitors are preparing to be dealt a blow in the race for Thuram in the near future.
The report claims that Serie A giants have been massively impressed by the performances of the 27-year-old this term and view the player as key to the long-term success of the team.
As a result, it is understood that Inter want to extend Thuram's current contract, which is due to expire at the end of the 2027-28 season.
It is believed that the Nerazzurri are willing to hand the Frenchman a significant wage increase to match his growing influence at the club.
There are also supposedly plans to scrap the £75m release clause in Thuram's deal, making it harder for the likes of Liverpool and namely Paris Saint-Germain to sign the talent.
© Imago
Thuram has proven himself on many fronts
After a productive few campaigns with Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga, Thuram has continued his excellent form at Inter Milan since a high-profile transfer during the summer of 2023.
The 29-time international bagged 13 Serie A goals during his debut term in Italy and has already matched that top-tier tally after 24 games this time around.
There have also been notable moments for Thuram on the Champions League scene, such as scoring a last-gasp winner versus Young Boys in October.
Carter White
