By David Lynch, Merseyside Correspondent

10th Jun, 2023 | 6:00pm

Sources: Liverpool in talks over two £35m+ deals

Liverpool are laying the groundwork for the signings of Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone and Nice star Kephren Thuram, sources have told Football Insider.

It is believed the Merseysiders are in preliminary talks over the duo, both 22, in an attempt to ascertain the fee and wage packages it will take to bring them to Anfield.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Liverpool recruitment chiefs feel “price and availability are key” as the Reds continue their midfield overhaul.

Alexis Mac Allister became the club’s first summer signing on Thursday (8 June), with Jurgen Klopp’s side paying Brighton a cut-price £35million fee for his services.

Liverpool are keen to address other areas in their side, including the defence, and are therefore wary of overpaying for any further midfield signings.

A key recruitment source has told Football Insider that Gladbach’s Kone could cost in the region of £35million – while a deal for Nice star Thuram could set the Reds back slightly more.

The duo fit the profile of midfielder Jurgen Klopp wants to add to his squad for the 2023-24 season – following a challenging campaign which saw them miss out on Champions League qualification.

Kone, who is contracted until June 2025, made 31 appearances across all competitions this term – notching one goal and one assist.

Nice midfielder Thuram, who is also out of contract in just two years’ time, notched two goals and eight assists in 48 appearances in all competitions.

Both players have been capped by France’s Under-21 side as they continue their respective development in Europe.

In other news, Liverpool handed “huge” Jude Bellingham boost as deal agreed.