The race for Hoffenheim’s explosive winger Bazoumana Toure just got a lot more interesting — and a lot more uncomfortable for Manchester United.
According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool has formally contacted the Bundesliga club to register their interest in the 20-year-old Ivorian, effectively jumping ahead of United in what is quickly becoming one of the most crowded transfer battles of the summer. While the Red Devils have been tracking Toure for months, it appears their cross-town rivals have made the first decisive move.
Who is Bazoumana Toure?
Nicknamed “The Hurricane” for his blistering acceleration, Toure is a natural left-footed left winger who joined Hoffenheim from Swedish side Hammarby in January 2025. Since then, he’s become a fixture in the starting XI. Last season, he posted five goals and 12 assists across 30 Bundesliga appearances — 29 of them starts — according to Transfermarkt.
United’s current squad lacks a player with that specific profile: a young, pace-driven wide man who can stretch defenses and create from the left. INEOS, who now oversee football operations at Old Trafford, have been targeting high-ceiling talents under 25, and Toure fits that mold perfectly.
Liverpool’s advantage — and the price tag
TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool has gone beyond mere interest, notifying Hoffenheim formally of their intentions. That doesn’t mean United is out of it — sources indicate the club still sees Toure as a high-upside addition who could inject much-needed dynamism into their attack. But the message is clear: the Merseyside club is acting faster.
Hoffenheim, meanwhile, is playing hardball. After missing out on Champions League qualification, the German side is reportedly willing to let Toure leave — but only for a club-record fee. TEAMtalk puts that figure between €40 million and €50 million. Earlier reports had suggested a €30–40 million range, but the club’s negotiating position appears to have stiffened. There is no release clause in Toure’s contract, which runs through 2029.
This isn’t a two-team race
The northwest rivals aren’t the only ones circling. Aston Villa and Newcastle United are described as “very interested,” with both clubs actively monitoring developments. Brighton has also been linked, and Brentford continues to show keen interest. Arsenal and Bayern Munich were previously connected to Toure but have not yet followed up on that initial buzz.
For United, losing out on this kind of target — especially to Liverpool — would sting. The club is expected to invest heavily in midfield this summer, but the left-forward spot remains a clear need. Toure’s price tag, while significant, is not prohibitive for a club of United’s resources. The question now is whether they can match Liverpool’s urgency before Hoffenheim’s asking price climbs even higher.
As things stand, the ball is in United’s court. But Liverpool already has it in their hands.
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