Liverpool 'to rival Aston Villa in Jeremy Doku race'

Liverpool have reportedly identified Rennes winger Jeremy Doku as a potential signing for the summer transfer window.

Jurgen Klopp has found himself having to focus his attention on tinkering with his midfield in recent weeks, a consequence of three players departing on free transfers and the likes of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson attracting interest from elsewhere.

Furthermore, there is also the need for another defender, preferably at centre-back, and the Merseyside giants are expected to sign at least two players to strengthen each area.

However, there remains a void to fill in the final third, a consequence of Roberto Firmino having left for Al-Ahli on a free transfer.

Although Dominik Szoboszlai has arrived from RB Leipzig, the Hungary international's versatility means that he could sometimes be used as the most advanced of the midfield three rather than on the flank.

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Klopp may look to resolve the situation by acquiring the services of a recognised central forward, yet it appears that there remains an interest in adding another winger to his ranks.

According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool could reignite their interest in negotiating a deal for Doku.

In his three years with Rennes, Doku has not always been regarded as first choice, with just 43 of his 73 appearances in Ligue 1 coming from the starting lineup.

Nevertheless, as well as being viewed as one of European football's top prospects for some time, the 21-year-old has just enjoyed a blistering end to the campaign, chipping in with five goals and two assists during a six-game run in France's top flight.

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A report over the weekend indicated that Aston Villa will weigh up an offer for the Belgium international in the event that they fail to secure the signing of Bayer Leverkusen winger Moussa Diaby.

Unai Emery's side are still someway short of agreeing a fee with their German counterparts, leaving the West Midlands outfit to contemplate alternative approaches.

Rennes are likely to push to retain the services of Doku, although the former Anderlecht youngster has just under two years remaining on his contract.

Doku, who may be valued in the region of €40m (£34.4m), allegedly has admirers in each of Napoli and AC Milan, but his focus is a switch to the Premier League if he leaves is current club.