Liverpool could secure their ideal heir to departed forward Xherdan Shaqiri after being linked with a move for Real Madrid ace Marco Asensio.

What's the story?

According to Spanish outlet TodoFichajes, the Reds are preparing a bid for the versatile 25-year-old as manager Jurgen Klopp continues to search for reinforcements for his first-team squad.

The report states that: "The Mallorcan still does not have a leading role in Ancelotti's plans, and he has been looking for a way out to relaunch his career for a long time," with Liverpool reportedly plotting a £30.1 million move for Asensio.

Heir to Xherdan Shaqiri

Asensio made a big impact when he first arrived in Madrid following his move from boyhood club Mallorca, establishing himself as one of Europe’s most promising young talents with a string of impressive performances.

His outstanding displays caught the eye of several onlookers, including Madrid legend Guti, who praised his compatriot's mindset.

Asensio is a lot better player than I was. He has an unlimited ceiling, his head is very well furnished, and will depend on what he wants to do in the world of football. The future is in his feet,” said Guti.

A ruptured cruciate ligament in 2020 stunted the midfielder’s progress, though, limiting him to just 10 appearances throughout the 2019/20 campaign.

Nevertheless, he made a solid return to action last term, scoring seven goals and providing two assists in 48 appearances, and at just 25, he still has plenty of time to fulfil his potential.

New Madrid boss Ancelotti doesn't appear to have a big role for Asensio at the Bernabeu, however. He's played just 57 minutes of La Liga football in the opening weeks of the campaign, leading to speculation that an imminent exit could be on the cards.

And Klopp may view the Spain international as the ideal replacement for Shaqiri. The diminutive forward departed Anfield after three frustrating years this summer, joining Ligue 1 outfit Lyon in a £9.5m move.

His exit has left Liverpool a little lightweight in the forward areas, though, and with Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah set to miss a significant chunk of the campaign due to the African Cup of Nations, further additions are likely to be required.

A move for Asensio, therefore, makes sense for multiple reasons, and Klopp may be tempted to strike as soon as January in order to provide cover for his forward line.

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