Liverpool’s partnership with Nike and LeBron James will be ‘key’ in their pursuit of Kylian Mbappe, according to reports.
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The Reds have long held an interest in the French superstar, who sent Paris Saint-Germain through in the Champions League earlier this week.
Alongside Erling Haaland, he is one of the most sought after players in the world right now.
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Mbappe has reportedly told PSG that he won’t be signing a new contract, sparking rumours of a Liverpool move.
According to Sport Witness, Liverpool’s Nike sponsorship deal and relationship with James will be ‘key’.
Basketball star James initially bought a 2 percent stake in Liverpool for $7.1million (£5.2million) in 2011.
Last month, he became part of the club’s owners with a major investment into Fenway Sports Group.
James, like Mbappe and Liverpool, is sponsored by sportswear giant Nike.
James and Mbappe are thought to have a good relationship and recently swapped Instagram photos as part of an advertising stunt.
That relationship could prove to be key in the transfer of Mbappe to Liverpool.
On Wednesday, Liverpool play their biggest rivals for Mbappe in Real Madrid.
The Reds trail in the Champions League quarter-final clash following a 3-1 defeat in Spain.
Manager Jurgen Klopp will be hoping for another brilliant European comeback to launch them into the semis.
If Liverpool fail to go through then it will signal another disappointment in their tough season.
They’ve been blown away by Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City when trying to defender their Premier League crown.
They were also knocked out in the FA Cup fourth round by rivals Manchester United.
If Liverpool want to regain their Prem and Champions League crowns, then signing Mbappe could be vital.
The forward is ruthless in front of goal and would suit Liverpool’s attacking style.
In Ligue 1 this season he’s achieved 28 goal contributions in just 27 matches.
Add to that his record in Europe, eight goals in nine games, and it’s obvious why he’s seen as the next big star.
Liverpool will need to produce a massive bid to lure Mbappe away from France.
But their partnership with Nike and basketball legend James could see them over the line.