Liverpool Transfer News: Latest on Franck Kessie Rumours Amid Juventus Interest

Liverpool are reportedly losing the race to sign Atalanta's young star Franck Kessie, as Juventus are looking to complete a deal for the 19-year-old and will meet his €20 million (£17 million) valuation. 

According to Tuttosport (h/t Football Italia, via ESPN FC's Jack Rathborn), Juve general manager Beppe Marotta is "looking to accelerate negotiations" for Kessie—the plan is to pay the fee now with the player arriving in the summer—in order to fend off the other suitors, Liverpool and AC Milan.

Per Italian football expert Adam Digby on Unibet, Ivorian midfielder Kessie has been dubbed the next Yaya Toure, so it is little surprise he has attracted interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs.

The Reds have reportedly "scouted Kessie extensively," but they have been on the back foot in the pursuit of the youngster since rumours first emerged of their interest, per Calciomercato (via the Liverpool Echo's Joe Rimmer).

The 19-year-old has enjoyed a breakout season in Serie A in 2016-17, netting five goals and providing one assist for Atalanta from central midfield in 12 league starts, per WhoScored.com.

Per Digby, the Ivory Coast international is powerful, skilful and boasts excellent technique, passing range and movement.

As can be seen below, he looks an exceptional young talent:

For Liverpool, he would be a fine addition to a squad that is a little lightweight in the middle of the park.

If he were to fulfil his potential, Kessie could be the leader of the Reds engine room for the best part of the next decade.

However, it seems that the Merseysiders and manager Jurgen Klopp are going to have to move fast and effectively if they are to prevent Juve from snapping up the teenager.

The Italian giants, unlike Liverpool, can almost guarantee Kessie domestic titles and UEFA Champions League football.

Klopp and Liverpool would have to somehow convince Kessie of the merits of their project at Anfield and likely give him assurances of first-team action to persuade him to choose Merseyside over Turin.