Thomas Lemar has hinted at his regret over not sealing a move to Liverpool during the summer transfer window.
The Frenchman was supposedly the subject of a bid upwards of £70million as Jurgen Klopp sought to bolster his attacking resources ahead of the new season.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain subsequently arrived from Arsenal at a similar time, although the understanding is that he was by no means an alternative to Lemar.
Liverpool’s revival of their interest in January following Philippe Coutinho’s move to Barcelona was gradually quashed, with Monaco reluctant to sell one of their star players midway through the season.
Klopp has since reportedly cooled his pursuit having been put off by Lemar’s £90million valuation, although the player himself is still optimistic a move could still be on the cards.
He told Telefoot: “Regrets? Maybe. I’m not going to hide it, I was a little disappointed. Once it’s over, it’s over, so I try not to think about it.”
“I’ve kept working so that these clubs come back during the next transfer window.”
“I am open to all offers. I am a football player, I like football. I do not close any door.”
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Lemar has also been identified as a target for Arsenal, although uncertainty over Arsene Wenger’s future leaves the club’s transfer plans subject to potential change.
At first glance, the 22-year-old certainly fits the bill as the playmaker with the pace and energy designed to see him thrive in an attacking setup such as that of Klopp’s.
His lack of experience raises obvious doubts over his ability to fare in the Premier League, with the transition from French football often proving difficult for some foreign players.
Given the success of his signings at Liverpool, Klopp’s final judgement is worth getting on board with.