Liverpool cool interest in Thomas Lemar

The ECHO understands that the France international is not on the list of targets under consideration ahead of this summer's transfer window.

Lemar has been heavily touted as a potential replacement for Philippe Coutinho, who was sold to Barcelona for £142million in January.

Reports in France this week suggested that Liverpool's hopes of signing him had been bolstered by his refusal to pen a new contract.

However, the Reds are no longer pursuing the 22-year-old and are focusing their attention elsewhere.

Sporting director Michael Edwards held talks with Monaco last August but the Reds were unable to agree a deal with the Ligue One outfit. After late interest from Arsenal, the asking price rocketed and he ended up staying put.

Liverpool kept close tabs on Lemar throughout the first half of this season but after Jurgen Klopp sanctioned the sale of Coutinho, the manager opted against making another attempt to sign him.

One reason was the £90million price tag which the Reds boss felt was excessive. Klopp believes that cash would be better spent elsewhere this summer.

Lemar caught Liverpool's eye after bagging 14 goals and providing 17 assists as Monaco won the French title and reached the semi-finals of the Champions League last season.

However, his contribution this term has been considerably less impressive with three goals and five assists.

The club's recruitment team, which includes Dave Fallows and Barry Hunter as well as Klopp and Edwards, are convinced that there are other players in that position who will be available this summer and are more suited to what Liverpool require.

Source: Liverpool Echo

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