Liverpool are set to open talks with Bayer Leverkusen’s Odilon Kossounou over a possible summer move, according to Caught Offside. The Premier League club are bullish on the defender and want him in their ranks ahead of next season.
Odilon Kossounou’s rising reputation
After representing a couple of clubs, Odilon Kossounou signed for Bayer Leverkusen in 2021. Since then, he has taken huge strides in his professional career. He has emerged as a solid figure for the club and a regular feature on the team sheet.
Kossounou has played a key role in the Bundesliga side’s invincible season so far. He has featured in 33 games so far, netting once. He is averaging 1.2 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, and 1.5 clearances per game (stats via whoscored).
The centre-back has a good frame and strength which allows him to impose himself on others during duels. He reads the game and times his tackles excellently well. Though his short passes are risky at times, his long passes are accurate and a key feature in initiating attacks.
Will Liverpool make an official move?
It seems like Odilon Kossounou is interested in taking a new challenge as he hasn’t responded to Bayer Leverkusen’s new contract proposal. Hence, major European clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayern Munich are keeping tabs on the player.
Liverpool remains one of the clubs that are highly interested in acquiring the services of the talented defender. The reason is Joel Matip, who leaves the club this season as a free agent. Hence, the club must bring in a fresh defender.
The Reds are preparing to open talks with Kossounou to know whether he would like to play at Anfield or not. If the player agrees then only the Premier League club will submit an official move. The player’s contract with his current employer expires in 2026.
Hence, the German outfit would demand a good fee to sanction the sale. Reportedly, any offer below €60m will not be entertained.