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Topics: Youssoufa Moukoko, Jude Bellingham, Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp, Premier League
Ryan Smart
Topics: Youssoufa Moukoko, Jude Bellingham, Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp, Premier League
Liverpool are leading the race to sign Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Youssoufa Moukoko, according to new reports.
The 17-year-old German forward, who was born in Cameroon, has lit up youth football in the country over recent seasons. In the 2019/20 season, he smashed in 34 goals in just 20 league appearances for Dortmund's U19 side.
The following campaign, 10 goals arrived in three games for the side, and he was called up to the senior squad that season.
Moukoko had to contend with Erling Haaland for a place in the starting lineup, meaning game time was relatively limited in 2021/22.
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But he has assumed the role of Dortmund's leading marksman in recent weeks. He has started five of the club's last six games in all competitions.
This season, he has four goals and two assists from 10 Bundesliga appearances. Dortmund are currently fifth in the table - four points behind leaders Union Berlin.
As regular Football Manager players will know well, Moukoko's current Dortmund contract expires in the summer of 2023.
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If the German giants cannot convince him to renew, a bidding war could be sparked in January. And, according to reports in Spain, a number of major clubs are already circulating.
A report from SPORT claims that Liverpool are the "best-positioned" club to sign the forward, who turns 18 in November.
However, they will face competition. Real Madrid, PSG and Barcelona are also quoted as being keen suitors of the Dortmund starlet.
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Speaking in 2020, Manchester City star Haaland said: "Moukoko is much better than I was at his age [then 15]. I have never seen such a good 15-year-old in my life."
Then, the following year, he told Insider: "Youssoufa is very powerful and skilful.
"He is already at one of the top clubs for improving his game. The club gives you a chance to play. It does not matter what age you are."
The club's policy appears to have paid off yet again when it comes to Moukoko - but Dortmund will be desperate not to lose one of their star assets on a free transfer.