Liverpool reach agreement for first January signing

Liverpool have reportedly reach terms with  Red Bull Salzburg to land Takumi Minamino in January

Minamino has been one of the stars of an exciting Salzburg team that has lit up the Champions League group stage this season, playing alongside the equally impressive forwards Hwang-Hee Chan and Erling Braut Haaland.

The Japan  international has a £7.25m release clause in his contract, which has alerted a number of Premier League, Bundesliga and Serie A clubs, but providing he passes a medical and barring any unforeseen circumstances, Liverpool should have their man when the window opens.

RB Salzburg's sporting director Christoph Fruend has told reporters this week that the 24-year-old is ready to accelerate his development at one of Europe's elite clubs after five years of service.

"He is an outstanding player with an outstanding personality," Freund told The Independent.

"The big clubs have been watching him and if I was them, I’d have no hesitation to sign him. Takumi is ready to make the next step in January."

The Austrian champions' sporting director furthermore confirmed on Thursday that Liverpool are in talks with Salzburg.

"I can confirm that there are currently discussions with Liverpool", Fruend said.

"It is an honour which clubs are interested in our players."

Minamino who plays as a attacking-midfielder impressed against Liverpool in their two Champions League group games this season, scoring at Anfield.