Liverpool step-up pursuit of 24-year-old star as Klopp eyes 2nd summer signing

Managers are working hard trying to strengthen their squads during the summer transfer window so we’ll bring you all the latest news and gossip from around the globe. Here, Liverpool are linked with Sardar Azmoun…

Liverpool have stepped-up their interest in Zenit Saint Petersburg striker Sardar Azmoun as Jurgen Klopp looks to add to his attacking options this summer, according to reports via the Metro.

Klopp already has a formidable front three at his disposal but he knows he needs support for the likes of Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah if they’re to compete on all fronts this coming season.

Daniel Sturridge is set to leave Anfield after struggling to establish himself while Divock Origi’s future is uncertain so Klopp is being tipped to dip into the market for another striker and it appears Azmoun is being eyed as a potential signing.

The Metro are citing a report from SovSport that claims Liverpool have stepped-up their interest in the 24-year-old after sending scouts to watch him in action for Zenit Saint Petersburg at the weekend.

The representatives would have been impressed with what they saw as Azmoun scored twice but his brace wasn’t enough as Zenit ended up losing the Russian Super Cup 3-2 to Lokomotiv Moscow.

The Iranian international has scored 19 goals in 34 games in all competitions since joining Zenit from Rubin Kazan on February 1st while he’s also got 28 goals in 45 caps for his country so he certainly has an impressive strike rate in front of goal.

Liverpool were first linked with Azmoun back in January 2017 but the level-headed youngster opted against the move due to concerns over regular playing time. However, he was confident he would eventually end up at a top European club in the near future.

‘There were talks of Liverpool having expressed an interest in me during the past winter transfer window,’ Azmoun said in 2017.

‘However, I did not feel the time to move was right. I would have ended up playing a few games and then spent a great deal of time on the bench as Liverpool were only looking to fill a void for a particular part of their season.

I want to move to a big club to develop as a player and therefore I will time the move with great precision. I am sure I will be playing for a top European club in the near future.’

Azmoun could get another chance to join Liverpool again this summer if the Merseysiders decide to formalise their interest and test Zenit’s resolve with a firm offer over the coming weeks.

READ –> Liverpool transfer news

However, with Klopp looking for a back-up striker to support Firmino, it remains to be seen whether the young hitman would be willing to settle for a place on the bench this time around.