Liverpool are launching a bid for AS Monaco winger Thomas Lemar.

The Mirror says Kop boss Jurgen Klopp has identified the France star as his No.1 target to slot into Coutinho's boots after his £145m move to Barcelona.

Monaco are making it clear that they do not want to sell Lemar in January but Liverpool are ready to test their resolve given any encouragement.

Lemar is keen on making a switch to Liverpool despite interest from Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

Monaco accepted a £90m bid from Arsenal in August - only for the deal to fall down - after stressing all summer he was not for sale. That sort of money may tempt them again.