Liverpool 'to rival Real Madrid for Serge Gnabry'

Liverpool have reportedly stepped up their interest in signing Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry.

In response to finishing as runners-up in both the Premier League and Champions League, Jurgen Klopp has already made alterations to his first-team squad.

Darwin Nunez is the most notable addition, the Uruguay international signing from Benfica in a deal which could reach £86m, and that arrival is regarded as a direct swap for Sadio Mane who has moved to Bayern.

Fabio Carvalho is also joining from Fulham, arguably as a direct replacement for Takumi Minamino who has since joined Monaco, but Liverpool are still one attack-minded player down with Divock Origi leaving on a free transfer.

According to Sport, the Merseyside giants have increased their efforts when it comes to trying to secure the services of Gnabry.

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The 26-year-old was a key man at the Allianz Arena last season, contributing 14 goals and five assists from his 34 appearances in the Bundesliga.

However, he has just one year remaining on his contract at a time when Mane has already made the switch to the top-flight champions, a transfer which may reduce his game time during 2022-23.

Previously, it has been claimed that Bayern remain in negotiations regarding a new contract, but the report says that Liverpool have already held negotiations with his representatives.

There is allegedly a feeling that a deal could eventually be agreed given the recent exchanges involving Mane, and Bayern will not want to risk losing a key man on a free transfer in 12 months' time.

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Real Madrid remain interested in signing the Germany international, but much could depend on whether Marco Asensio departs the Santiago Bernabeu over the coming weeks.

Asensio finds himself in a similar situation to Gnabry, the Spanish playmaker possessing just one year left on his deal and attracting interest from elsewhere.

Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic has recently commented on the situation, admitting that a resolution will have to be found if the player does not pen fresh terms.

Speaking to Sky Deutschland, he said: "We really want to keep him. I hope that he chooses Bayern. If a player doesn't want to decide for the club, then we can find a solution that makes everyone happy."

Since joining Bayern in July 2017, Gnabry has contributed 64 goals and 40 assists from his 171 appearances in all competitions.