Ligue 1 sensation flattered by Man Utd and Liverpool interest
Tom Weber
- 8 Nov 2023 11:21 CST
- 3 min read
Nice star Khephren Thuram has admitted that he was delighted to be linked with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United in the summer.
The 22-year-old has become one of Europe's most sought-after midfielders due to his performances for Nice. The son of France legend Lilian Thuram, Khephren is an all-action performer who is now a senior French international.
Heavily linked with Liverpool, with United also reportedly in the mix, in the summer, no move ultimately materialised, and Thuram has revealed that staying with Nice was his conscious decision. It turned out to be a shrewd one, too.
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The Ligue 1 side are flying high this term, topping the French top flight thanks to boasting Europe's stoutest defence. The backline, protected by Thuram and marshalled by United and Chelsea target Jean-Clair Todibo, has only conceded a simply incredible four goals in 11 games so far this term.
Interest in Thuram is expected to ramp up again in 2024 and the Italy-born midfielder has now opened up on the previous transfer links.
What did Thuram say?
Speaking at a press conference ahead of Friday's clash with Montpellier, Thuram said: "I think I’ve started the season well. The team has of course had a very good start to the season. I have developed aspects of my game. Regarding what happened in the transfer window, I decided to stay."
“I wanted to continue to progress at Nice," the Frenchman continued, as relayed by GFFN, "and progress as a player at this club. Honestly, it made me happy to be linked to all these clubs left, right and centre. It shows I’m doing the right things but as I said, I knew I wanted to stay here."
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Both Liverpool and Man Utd reportedly continue to keep an eye on the 22-year-old. The latter may even have an advantage over other potential suitors given that Nice owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to acquire a minority stake in the Red Devils and gain control of the club's sporting operations.
