Mohamed Bouhafsi has confirmed that Liverpool are in discussions with Lille for their star forward Nicolas Pepe.
The journalist also claimed that Inter are interested in the Ivorian international, but are likely to be priced out of any potential deal.
“This is an €80million situation [to sign Pepe]”, Bouhafsi told Get French Football News. “What I can say is that there are very concrete discussions with Liverpool.
“Discussions that are not even denied by Lille, at Lille they don’t deny the very concrete interest and discussions from and with Liverpool.
“I did speak about an unnamed 3rd club, following my exchanges on Nicolas Pepe and with Liverpool fans, and I think that this 3rd club could be Inter Milan. But I think that at €80million, this deal is too expensive for the Italian side.
“Then, I know that Jürgen Klopp adores Nicolas Pepe’s profile, he brings a lot of speed and he is made to play in England, with quick transitions and an exceptional ability to counter-attack. Discussions have been had with Liverpool, who have a very profound interest.”
Arsenal are also said to be interested in Pepe, as per the Express, and may be able to offer for winger more playing time than what Jurgen Klopp may.
The Ivorian international is a left-footed right-winger, just like Liverpool star Mo Salah, and he’d find it incredible difficult to dislodge to Egyptian in the starting XI.