Liverpool have decided to look for alternatives after reportedly being priced out of a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.
The Reds have been long-time admirers of the English star, but they have now pulled the plug on their pursuit with the consent of manager Jurgen Klopp.
According to German journalist Florian Plettenberg, Klopp has identified five alternative midfield targets – Declan Rice, Moises Caicedo, Nicolo Barella, Ryan Gravenberch and Matheus Nunes.
Having rejected multiple renewal offers from West Ham United, Rice seems destined for a move to a big club this summer.
Available for around £75 million, Rice is also on the wishlist of Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea, which makes it difficult for Liverpool.
Brighton & Hove Albion’s Caicedo is also being tracked by top clubs, and the Reds would be required to pay a large sum for his services.
Arsenal came close to signing him in the winter transfer window, but the Seagulls turned down their £70 million bid.
The Gunners and Chelsea are interested in the Ecuadorian midfielder, who penned a new contract with Brighton last month until 2027.
Barella is a feasible target for the Merseysideiders as Inter Milan could be forced to sell some of their prized assets due to their financial crisis.
The Italian midfielder has been one of the most consistent performers for the Nerazzurri and was on target in last night’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Benfica.
However, Barella is committed to Inter and the club value him as a key asset for their long-term plans.
Gravenberch’s time at Bayern Munich hasn’t gone as planned, having struggled for game time in his debut season.
Exit rumours have circulated recently, with Arsenal registering an interest in him.
The Reds also can offer Gravenberch an escape route to revive his career if the Bavarians decide to sell him in the summer.
Nunes’ links with Liverpool have been doing rounds for a while, with the club viewing the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder as one of their top targets.
Liverpool are also keen on Chelsea’s Mason Mount, who wants to leave Stamford Bridge having opted against a contract extension.
