Liverpool 'view Vinicius Junior as long-term Sadio Mane replacement'

Liverpool are reportedly interested in bringing Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior to Anfield.

The Brazil international has been in impressive form for Los Blancos during the 2021-22 campaign, scoring 12 times and contributing nine assists in 23 appearances in all competitions.

Vinicius is thought to be one of the lowest-paid first-team players at Bernabeu, though, and he is yet to sign a new deal with Carlo Ancelotti's side despite the recent speculation.

According to Defensa Central, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp believes that the 21-year-old would be the ideal long-term replacement for Sadio Mane.

The Senegal international has again been a key player for the Reds this season, scoring nine times and contributing one assist in 23 appearances, but his contract at Anfield is due to expire in June 2023.

Vinicius has played a key role in Real Madrid's impressive 2021-22 La Liga campaign, scoring 10 times and contributing five assists, while he netted twice and provided four assists in six Champions League group-stage appearances as Los Blancos breezed into the next round.