Liverpool and Real Madrid are “far from giving up” in the race to sign RB Leipzig forward Christopher Nkunku, according to FussballTransfers.com.

The German website claims that, while the two clubs are “behind” Chelsea in the pecking order for the Frenchman’s services, they still believe a deal is possible.

Graham Potter’s side have seemingly stolen a march on their rivals, with negotiations for Nkunku having already reached the stage where the player has had a medical.

However, the 24-year-old’s €60m (£53m) release clause can only be triggered next summer so there is still a chance for other teams to muscle in on the deal.

Liverpool will probably need to enter negotiations soon if they are going to head off Chelsea in the battle for the forward’s signature. The Blues are believed to be on good terms with Leipzig after selling Timo Werner back to the German club for a knockdown price.

The Reds do, though, have a decent relationship with Leipzig themselves, having agreed a deal for Naby Keita a few years ago which was similar to the one currently being proposed for Nkunku.