Rumour: Liverpool on alert as Marseille playmaker Mathieu Valbuena is available in summer

Mathieu Valbuena

Liverpool have been put on alert by news that Marseille intend selling off a number of players this summer – including Reds’ transfer target Mathieu Valbuena, according to the Mirror.

The diminutive playmaker has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time after a number of impressive performances in Ligue Un and the player has never hidden his desire to test himself in another country.

The Frenchman is considered by the powers that be at Anfield to be a perfect foil to share the creative burden placed upon Philippe Coutinho, with the Brazilian fading slightly in the second half of the season having been a regular in the side throughout.

Marseille have endured a disappointing campaign as they sit in sixth position in the table in Ligue Un and are planning a clear out of senior staff, with the likes of Steve Mandanda , Andre Ayew and Nicolas N’Koulou all linked with moves away as well.

French publication L’Equipe have added Valbuena to that list as well now after the player claimed earlier in the year that a summer departure was a possibility and that “an experience abroad tempts me.”

Marseille are believed to be willing to let him move on should a suitable offer come in from a prominent club and with Liverpool still in the title hunt and almost certainties to be playing Champions League football next season, they would fit the criteria should they cement their interest with a concrete bid at the end of the season.

Mathieu Valbuena has created 70 chances for Marseille this season, creating 3.03 chances per 90 minutes of action. Philippe Coutinho has created 42 opportunities for teammates, at a rate of 2.14 per 90 minutes.