Liverpool could be closing in on just their second signing of the summer after reportedly making advances in their pursuit of Rennes winger Jeremy Doku.

What's the story?

The Reds have been linked with a move for the highly-rated 19-year-old in recent weeks as manager Jurgen Klopp looks to freshen up his faltering forward line.

And now Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri has provided an update on Doku's future, claiming the teenager "loves" Liverpool and has already held talks with the Anfield outfit.

“The player is really happy in Rennes for the moment but loves Liverpool, and Liverpool loves (him) too,” Tavolieri told Anfield Central. "The agency of Jeremy Doku has already been in contact with Liverpool. They know each other, so if they want to go further it could go pretty quickly.

"If Liverpool wants Doku, they are going to pay a minimum of €50m (£42.6m) because Rennes is not ready to let the player go for the moment."

Liverpool fans will be buzzing

The Belgium international only arrived at the Roazhon Park last October following a string of impressive performances for boyhood club Anderlecht in his homeland.

And his maiden campaign with Rennes showcased his truly top-class potential. Doku scored two goals and laid on a further four assists in 37 appearances for Les Rouge et Noir, but his underlying numbers were arguably more eye-catching.

As per WhoScored, the pacey forward completed a whopping 3.7 dribbles per league game throughout 2020/21, far more than any of his teammates, and also produced 1.4 key passes, the third-highest tally in comparison to his colleagues.

He also achieved an overall rating of 7.07, the second-highest total for any Rennes player, highlighting the exceptional quality that the youngster possesses.

Doku has also made his mark at international level, though, despite only making 10 appearances for Roberto Martinez's charges. Compatriot Kevin De Bruyne lauded Doku's natural talent following his full senior debut against Iceland in the Nations League last September.

“He is nimble, fast and he can dribble. Of course, he sometimes makes a mistake, but who doesn’t? He is a diamond in the rough,” said De Bruyne.

With the famed front three of Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mohamed Salah all fast approaching their 30's, Klopp needs to start thinking about the next generation of attacking talent for his ageing squad.

As a result, the Liverpool supporters will surely be buzzing to learn that the club's hierarchy are in talks with Doku's representatives, and they'll be hoping director of football Michael Edwards can get this deal over the line.

And, in other news...Liverpool tipped to make a move for £117m-rated “phenomenon”, Klopp would love him