Schalke are ready to tempt Liverpool into selling striker Taiwo Awoniyi with the Nigerian's long-term Anfield future remaining in the balance.

Awoniyi has been impressing on his latest loan spell with Belgian side Mouscron, who he rejoined in January.

The 21-year-old has already scored six goals and claimed two assists in seven appearances in the Jupiler Pro League.

Bundesliga side Schalke are monitoring the player's progress and have contacted Liverpool with regards making a permanent transfer for the 21-year-old in the summer.

However, the Reds are expecting plenty of interest in Awoniyi, with a number of French and Belgian clubs keen on a loan move, and German side Mainz also pondering an offer.

Liverpool would ask for around 15 million euros (£12.9m) for a permanent deal, but are open to another loan move next season.

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Awoniyi joined Liverpool in August 2015 and signed an improved five-year contract last summer.

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But the Nigerian has not yet been eligible for a UK work permit, a situation that could be further complicated by the implications of Brexit.

As a consequence, Awoniyi is still waiting on his first Reds outing and has instead had spells on loan with FSV Frankfurt in Germany and Dutch side NEC Nijmegen, and was at Mouscron last season before returning to the Belgian side in the New Year having struggled to make an impact at Gent during the first half of the campaign.

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Gent were forced to pay Liverpool a financial penalty as part of the deal after Awoniyi failed to start 70% of their matches.

Liverpool's hopes of gaining a work permit for the player would be bolstered should his form earn a full international debut for Nigeria later this month.