Liverpool have reportedly ‘signalled their fundamental interest’ in Schalke striker Matthew Hoppe ahead of a potential summer transfer, according to Transfermarkt (via Sport Witness).
The Reds aren’t alone in their interest and could face competition from Tottenham, Norwich City and Dutch giants Ajax.
As Schalke hurtle towards their impending relegation, the 20-year-old is said to have a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ in place that allows him to leave at the end of the season if an adequate offer is forthcoming.
Hoppe’s breakthrough moment came in a 4-0 victory over Hoffenheim when the American netted a hat-trick.
Since that moment Hoppe has been a beacon of hope in an otherwise unpleasant Bundesliga campaign for the side firmly installed at the bottom of the table – scoring five league goals in 15 appearances.
Under contract until 2023 and valued at just £2.7m (Transfermarkt), the American forward could represent a minimal outlay as Jurgen Klopp prepares for a summer revamp.
L4L’s VIEW
Liverpool have already struck up a relationship with Schalke having signed Ozan Kabak on deadline day, although it remains to be seen whether that deal will be made permanent.
With obvious links to the club’s American owners, there is plenty of sense to this deal, albeit players shouldn’t be signed on that basis alone.
For a low price and with potential clear to see, this would represent a win, win prospect, so long as he wasn’t the only striking arrival.
