Liverpool reportedly hold a long-standing interest in Lille midfielder Boubakary Soumare.

Having impressed for the French outfit over the past 18 months, Soumare has been strongly linked with a future move to the Premier League.

While Chelsea and Manchester United are credited as admirers during January, it was also suggested that Newcastle United failed with a big-money bid for the 21-year-old.

However, according to Sport, Liverpool are also keen on the prospect and have been holding talks with his representatives for some time.

Although the Merseyside giants are well stocked for options in the centre of the pitch, Soumare would offer different qualities to Jurgen Klopp's team.

Barcelona are also said to be monitoring the situation.