Liverpool dealt blow as transfer target not keen on leaving current club - Reports

Reported Liverpool target Aurelien Tchouameni has no intention of leaving Real Madrid. He's focused on building his future at the Spanish club, according to a report by journalist Matteo Moretto (via Madrid Xtra). It was recently reported by TeamTalk that the Los Blancos hierarchy would accept a big-money offer for the player.

Tchouameni has proven to be a decent midfielder in recent times, as his ability to stabilize the defensive side of the midfield has been fascinating. Since joining Real Madrid from AS Monaco in 2022, the Frenchman has established himself in the first-team squad, and this has improved his value. Hence, he's also become a decent target for top teams in the transfer market.

On the flip side, one of the areas that Liverpool had planned to reinforce last summer was the midfield as they tried to sign Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. However, the Spaniard rejected the chance to join them, according to a report by Sky Sports.

Now with Tchouameni reportedly choosing not to consider any transfer offer, the Reds hierarchy would have to look elsewhere in their quest to sign a midfielder.

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Who could Liverpool sign to reinforce their midfield in the January transfer window?

There's no doubt that the Reds are keen on strengthening their midfield. It can be said that they arguably haven't found a decent replacement for Fabinho, who left the club to join Al-Ittihad in 2023. Similarly, when you take a look at the squad, it can be said that there's a need to enhance the defensive side of the midfield.

One player that the Reds hierarchy have recently shown interest in is Orkun Kokcu, according to a report by Team Talk. In the ongoing 2024-25 campaign, Kokcu has netted four goals and registered three assists in nine appearances across competitions for Benfica. The 23-year-old is a mobile midfielder as he could feature as a central, attacking or defensive midfielder.

Kokcu has previously featured under Arne Slot while he was at Feyenoord. He registered 21 goals and 14 assists in 96 games under the Dutchman This could imply that, if he's signed by Liverpool, it might be easy for him to adapt to the tactics, given his relationship with Slot. As such, given his versatility and ability to boss the midfield, Liverpool could profit from his mastery if they sign him.