Thomas Lemar: 75M Plus Divock Origi On Loan?

Yesterday saw a shocking turn of events in what had thus far been a pretty disappointing summer transfer window. Naby Keïta? Sorted, and coming in next year. Virgil van Dijk? Some possible movement there. And then there’s midfielder Thomas Lemar who seemed to come out of nowhere.

Liverpool have apparently already had two bids rejected so far, but there remains hope that the player can be had, if the price is right. The latest rumors, courtesy of L’Equipe, whose coverage contains much that is apocryphal, or at least wildly inaccurate, indicates that Liverpool are back in with another sizeable bid.

According to the French outlet, the bid is a total of €80 million (£74.3 million), €50 million of which would be paid this year, and the remaining to be paid next. It would also include a loan of Divock Origi, who increasingly appears to be a surplus to requirements at Anfield.

Although Liverpool appears to be making a late push for the talented lefty, there are reasons to doubt this report. L’Equipe is not known for its journalistic integrity, and player swaps should always come with a rather large grain of salt. Liverpool very well could be preparing to table another bid (if they haven’t already), but probably not this bid in particular.

In other Lemar news, there are rumors out of Italy that Monaco and Lazio have reached a €30 million deal to bring Keita Balde to France. If true, Balde’s arrival at Monaco could make way for Lemar’s departure.

Addendum: James Pearce just confirmed that Liverpool are preparing a £75 million bid, with the possibility of including Origi. Crazy times.