19-year-old midfielder has now caught Liverpool’s eye, they could get him for just £16m

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As the January transfer window draws closer, Liverpool continue to be linked with a number of midfielders.

Although it seems likely that it will be a quiet winter in the market for Liverpool, that hasn’t stopped the rumour mill from whirring. Only today, for example, they’ve been reported as being favourites to land Nice’s Khephren Thuram.

And as per Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, a new name can now be added to the list, too.

They claim that the Reds are taking a look at Genk midfielder Bilal El Khannous. Only 19, El Khannous is said to be the ‘prized piece of silverware’ for the Belgian side, who have become known as a prolific producer of talent.

Despite his lofty potential, it’s claimed that Genk will start the bidding at a relatively lowly £16m for El Khannous, who’s described as a midfield ‘mezzala.’

At that kind of price, there’s said to be plenty of interest in the youngster, not only from Liverpool. Tottenham Hotspur also reportedly have El Khannous on their radar, while Fiorentina are claimed to be sniffing around as well. Noting the interest in their player, Genk recently extended El Khannous’ contract to 2027.

Liverpool like the look of El Khannous

Although El Khannous does look like an exciting young prospect at Genk, we can’t see him joining Liverpool.

For now, despite all the rumours, we don’t think the Reds are planning for the imminent arrival of a midfielder in January.

We’d of course like to be proven wrong, but we have an inkling that Jurgen Klopp is happy to hold what he has.

Even if that does change, and Liverpool do dip into the market, it won’t be for a player like El Khannous.

The Morocco international looks to be more of a ball-carrying, chance-creating midfielder in the mould of a Curtis Jones or a Ryan Gravenberch.

As the presence of those two players – as well as Harvey Elliott – would suggest, Liverpool are more than fine in that department for now.

The Reds could do with a more defensive minded midfielder if they are to add one at all. That doesn’t look to be the kind of player El Khannous is.

Nevertheless, Liverpool can surprise you in the market. They’re always on the lookout for opportunity and at that kind of price, perhaps this young man could be one. Let’s see if anything develops.