Liverpool Intensifies Interest in €85 Million Star Thuram: French Forward Determined to Fulfill His Aspirations at Inter

Inter Milan’s rising star Marcus Thuram is at the center of transfer speculation, with reports from La Gazzetta dello Sport suggesting Liverpool’s interest in the French forward has intensified. However, despite interest from top clubs, Thuram remains firmly committed to Inter, where he aims to achieve personal and professional milestones.

From a Transfer Gamble to Europe’s Elite

Thuram’s arrival at Inter in the summer of 2023 was initially viewed as a shrewd move by the Nerazzurri. Secured on a free transfer, the former Borussia Mönchengladbach player was considered a low-risk opportunity rather than an immediate solution. Fast-forward to the 2023-24 season, and Thuram has emerged as one of Europe’s most dynamic forwards.

His combination of pace, physicality, and tactical intelligence has made him indispensable to Simone Inzaghi’s side. His performances have drawn admiration from across Europe, particularly the Premier League. Liverpool, a club with a long-standing admiration for Thuram dating back to Jürgen Klopp’s tenure, is reportedly monitoring his development under new manager Arne Slot.

Thuram’s contract at Inter includes a release clause set at €85 million. This figure has fueled speculation that cash-rich clubs, including Liverpool, could activate the clause. However, as Italian media emphasize, the decisive factor in any transfer is the player’s will—and Thuram appears uninterested in leaving Milan anytime soon.

Deep Roots in Italy

Thuram’s connection to Italy runs deep, shaping his loyalty to the country and its football culture. Born in Parma, he spent much of his formative years in Turin, following his father, legendary defender Lilian Thuram. Those early years instilled a profound sense of belonging to Italy, which Marcus now considers a second home.

His return to Serie A after a stint in Germany felt like a homecoming, and Inter’s unwavering pursuit of him added an emotional dimension to his transfer. Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio’s years-long interest in Thuram played a crucial role, as did Thuram’s childhood friendship with Federico Chiesa, another Serie A star.

The camaraderie within Inter further solidifies Thuram’s attachment to the club. He has often expressed gratitude toward teammates like Nicolò Barella and Federico Dimarco, referring to them as “brothers.” Even during national team duties with France, he admitted that playing against his Inter teammates at the San Siro felt "strange" because of his love for the stadium and the club.

Aiming for Individual Greatness

While Thuram’s immediate focus is on Inter’s success, he has set ambitious personal goals. Traditionally viewed as a supporting forward rather than a prolific striker, Thuram is determined to redefine his role this season.

Historically, his scoring records have been modest. Across 311 career matches in Ligue 1, the Bundesliga, Serie A, European competitions, and domestic cups, he has scored 86 goals and provided 54 assists. His best league season saw him net 13 goals (2022-23 with Gladbach and last season with Inter). Across all competitions, his peak tally is 16 goals in the 2022-23 season.

This season, however, Thuram has started strongly, netting eight goals in the first third of the campaign. His sights are set on surpassing his previous best and assuming a more central role in Inter’s attack. As he transitions from Lautaro Martínez’s supporting “knight” to a “king” in his own right, Thuram is motivated to lead the Nerazzurri’s charge on multiple fronts.

Liverpool’s Renewed Interest

Liverpool’s interest in Thuram is unsurprising, given his performances and their history of admiration. Reports indicate that the Reds have consistently tracked him, with his agent confirming that Klopp-era interest has persisted and even intensified under Slot.

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy under Slot aligns with Thuram’s profile: a versatile attacker capable of contributing across various roles. Thuram’s physicality and work rate would suit the Premier League, but his loyalty to Inter and desire to achieve new heights in Milan remain significant obstacles to any potential transfer.

Inter’s Stance and Future Prospects

Inter Milan appears relatively calm about Thuram’s situation, despite his release clause. Club officials believe that the player’s commitment and gratitude toward the Nerazzurri outweigh any financial temptations.

Thuram’s current focus is on achieving breakthroughs at Inter—both in individual contributions and collective success. He aims to exceed his previous scoring records and cement his position as one of Serie A’s most influential players.

While the transfer market is notoriously unpredictable, Thuram’s current stance offers reassurance to Inter fans. For now, the Frenchman is fully invested in his journey at the San Siro, prioritizing his growth and loyalty over potential moves to clubs like Liverpool.

Whether Thuram eventually leaves Milan remains a question for the future. But as of now, his ambition, gratitude, and determination to lead Inter make him a key figure in the Nerazzurri’s aspirations this season.