Club’s Talks For Winger ‘Helpful For Liverpool’ Claims Journalist | OneFootball

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Bayer Leverkusen are in talks with Paris Saint Germain over Liverpool target Ibrahim Mbaye, but the Reds could use those discussions to their advantage by finding out his valuation ahead of a potential late swoop, it has been claimed.

The 18-year-old, who made his debut for the Parisians two seasons ago, appears set for a summer departure from the club.

With PSG bringing in Khalil Ayari and Maghnes Akliouche, while Ferran Torres is also wanted, Mbaye is seeking a move in search of more regular first-team opportunities.

Liverpool have registered their interest in the winger, with the Reds keen on adding him to their attacking ranks alongside Bradley Barcola, who is also open to a move.

However, competition for the Senegalese winger’s signature is growing, with interest emerging from several Premier League clubs, Serie A sides and Bundesliga teams.

Among those suitors, Bayer Leverkusen are pursuing Mbaye and are currently in direct talks with PSG over a potential deal.

While their interest is considered advanced, PSG have not taken any firm decision over what to do with Mbaye yet.

Interest from Bayer Leverkusen could well help Liverpool’s cause on Mbaye, it has been claimed.

Journalist David Lynch said on his YouTube channel (5:30): “And now we understand it that Bayer Leverkusen are also keen on the player and talking to PSG directly right now, so a little bit more advanced in their interest, albeit not close to a deal right now as it sounds.

“But a little bit more advanced in the deal in terms of talks with PSG directly for around kind of similar money, around that €40m mark.

“I think that’s helpful for Liverpool because it essentially sets a benchmark.

“It means that, look, if Liverpool do come in at the last, if they do decide to pull the trigger on Mbaye, it’s going to be hard for PSG to turn around and say, ‘Well, you’re a Premier League club, we’re going to charge you XYZ.’

“Because they’ve come quite close to kind of agreeing what a fee would look like already with RB Leipzig, with Bayer Leverkusen.

“That valuation is out there.”

Aston Villa are another Premier League side interested in Mbaye, with the Birmingham club also able to offer Champions League football, putting them in a strong position alongside Liverpool.

With an exit from the Parc des Princes appearing increasingly likely, it remains to be seen where the 18-year-old will land before the transfer window closes.