Monaco have emerged as the favourite to sign Taki Minamino as the Japanese international edges closer to the Anfield exit door.
It was believed that Leeds were one of the favourites for the 27 year-old and a reunion with Jesse Marsch from their RB Salzburg days, but The Mirror reports that the French club are now in pole position to clinch the deal believed to be around £17million.
Minamino had few first team opportunities to impress Jurgen Klopp last season but when given a chance he made the most of them with 10 goals from 24 appearances which included a number of important contributions in the League and FA Cups.
While he undoubtedly would have been frustrated by not being involved more, Minamino has been the model professional and hence has earned the ultimate respect from Jurgen Klopp who has been almost apologetic for the lack of minutes given to the versatile attacking option.
With Minamino on the brink of departing, it means that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will stay with the Reds for another season and see out the final year of his contract. Aston Villa has been one club who have been keen on the 28 year-old but the fact that he has looked to put his catalogue of injuries behind him and been consistently available for the best part of 18 months means that Klopp wants to hold onto him as a option.
While the future of Neco Williams is still to be sorted with the club reportedly favouring the season-long loan option with newly promoted clubs Fulham and Nottingham Forest showing a keen interest.
With the World Cup on the horizon and the youngster making big strides under Wales manager Robert Page, the best pathway forward for the 21 year-old would be to have first team football at the top level on a weekly basis.
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