Nicolas Pepe is under the watch of several European heavyweights and Liverpool have made an approach
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That's according to Sunday Times journalist Duncan Castles who made the revelation while speaking on the latest episode of the Transfer Window Podcast.
Nicolas Pepe is one of the free-scoring winger whose prolific form this season made him one of European football's hottest properties, firing Lille to second spot in the French Ligue 1 behind giants Paris Saint Germain.
With other important names being linked with move to Anfield this summer, the Reds could sort out their funds in landing the Ivorian international as a boost for their front-three next season.
And Duncan Castles has claimed talks has already begun with both parties.
"Nicolas Pepe - we discussed him last week as a player Manchester United had been recommended to sign last summer.
"Liverpool have contacted Lille to ask what the cost will be. That contact has not been direct, it's been done through agents.
"The asking price at present is €80m (£69m) - I think they feel they might be able to get beyond that if they can get Liverpool, Chelsea - who have also been watching Lille games recently - Paris St-Germain and Bayern Munich.
"Bayern Munich are in pole position to get him having made a €60m (£52m) offer. That's not been accepted, but I think there's a good chance they'll increase their bid."