Liverpool make first official transfer move under Arne Slot to try and steal Man Utd target

Liverpool have made their first official transfer approach under Arne Slot, according to reports, with the approach focused on a Manchester United target.

Slot officially began his role as Liverpool manager on June 1, replacing Jurgen Klopp.

The former Feyenoord boss is yet to be officially unveiled at Anfield, with that process expected to take place once pre-season gets underway next month.

But he has been at work behind the scenes as he looks to improve his squad ahead of his first campaign in charge.

Back in April, when Slot was linked with taking over at Anfield, the Reds were quickly linked with moves for Feyenoord defensive duo Lutsharel Geertruida and David Hancko - with Geertruida even spotted in the away end as Liverpool drew 2-2 at West Ham.

But according to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Slot has his eye on another defensive talent instead - and he has been targeted by Manchester United, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain.

The player in question is centre-back Leny Yoro who, at 18 years of age, has already established himself as a key member of Lille's first team.

He made 32 appearances for the Ligue 1 club last season, and stands at 6ft 2in tall.

Yoro was also named in France's Olympics squad by head coach Thierry Henry.

Journalist Gianluca Di Marzio reported last month that Liverpool had 'forcefully' entered the race to sign the defender, who is described as 'one of the most sought-after players in world football'.

Now, Mundo Deportivo report that, despite the player's preference being to sign for Real, the Champions League holders are yet to reach an agreement with Lille due to the French club's €60 million valuation.

Getty)

They claim that Liverpool have submitted a bid of €50 million in an attempt to steal a march on their transfer rivals, but it has been rejected by the French club.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the Reds' interest in Yoro is indeed genuine.

He said: "Liverpool really like Leny Yoro, and they are also in the race with PSG and other clubs in case Real Madrid will not go for him.

"Liverpool is one to watch. The interest is genuine and the player is aware of Liverpool's interest. They are waiting to see what happens with Real Madrid."

SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated transfer news channel to send you the latest deals, rumours and more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.