LIVERPOOL has reportedly entered the race to sign Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.
Total football claims Jurgen Klopp has moved in front of Manchester United after Liverpool’s terrible start to the new season.
Due to injuries to Thiago Alcantara and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Liverpool are falling short in midfield.
Fabinho also struggles with fitness issues, while Naby Keita’s future is in doubt.
And after taking just two points from his first three games, Klopp has decided that De Jong must join his Anfield war machine.
It is alleged that Liverpool have submitted a £53million bid for the Holland international, with a further £7million in add-ons.
It is unclear whether the Reds also intend to pay De Jong the £14 million in wages he is allegedly owed by Barca.
But the ex-Ajax top player could be tempted by a switch to Anfield, because playing Champions League football is non-negotiable.
United managed to strike a deal with Barcelona earlier this month to sign De Jong.
But their Europa League status and chaotic start to the season under Erik ten Hag saw the playmaker refuse to leave Barca.
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And it’s unclear if United will return after a splash on Real Madrid presenter Casemiro.
Chelsea are also thought of to be in the running despite no formal offer being made yet.
However, it now appears that Liverpool are leading the race to sign De Jong for next week’s transfer deadline.
Barcelona has made no secret of the fact that they want to sell De Jong so that they can register all their new signings.
And with the summer window coming to an end soon, the player himself can finally decide it’s time to disembark.