Real Madrid ‘consider’ transfer swoop for £72m-rated Liverpool forward

Liverpool fans have been delighted to see the return of Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah return from AFCON earlier this month, with the duo both scoring in their 3-1 win over Norwich City at the weekend.

Both have been transfer targets for Europe’s biggest clubs in recent years and it now appears that Liverpool will face a new test to keep hold of Mane in the summer.

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Real Madrid are keen on signing the winger ahead of next season.

The La Liga side see the AFCON champion as a primary target, however they could accelerate their efforts if they fail to sign Erling Haaland or Kylian Mbappe.

Mane has become one of the best players in the world during his time on Merseyside and is valued by Transfermarkt at £72 million - despite the club receiving criticism when they paid up to £36 million for his services in 2016.

The 29-year-old was instrumental to Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League success and has scored over 100 goals in all competitions - winning the Premier League Golden Boot in 2018/19.

While Real Madrid are eager to bring Mane to Spain this summer, any potential move is unlikely to materialise until his current contract expires in 2023.

According to GOAL, the Senegal international would be open to making the switch to La Liga, though the Reds won’t be prepared to sanction his departure anytime soon.

Despite the arrival of Luis Diaz last month, it is thought Jurgen Klopp will be eager to keep both Mane and Salah at the club beyond the summer.

The Merseyside club could move within three points of Manchester City if they beat Leeds United tonight and they will need the duo in top form if they are to become Premier League champions for the second time.