Man City boss Pep Guardiola has lauded Jude Bellingham ahead of his side's Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday - and it has got Liverpool fans worried.
Bellingham has long been linked with a move to Jurgen Klopp's side. The latest report from The Times suggests that the Reds will not pay over £100 million for the player's services.
The Reds are searching for a long-term addition to their midfield. Injuries to the likes of Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Curtis Jones have left them short of options.
In addition, James Milner is now 36, and his contract expires this summer.
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Liverpool fans have been keen for their club to secure the signature of Bellingham, who has established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world since joining Dortmund from Birmingham City in 2020.
But it certainly won't be easy - and a new stumbling block may have inadvertently been placed.
Pep Guardiola praises Jude Bellingham
Speaking ahead of City's tie with Dortmund, Guardiola picked out Bellingham as the one of biggest young talents on the planet.
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He explained: "I think I said, about two or three years when he was 17. It's not just about the quality. It's how he was shouting, leading, kicking, and going to the referee.
"This guy is something special in terms of mentality. I think he's already one of the captains of the team. At 19 years old, that's quite impressive.
"It's not just about goals. The whole package is really good. He's already in the national team for England, playing with them, and he's just 19 years old. That's quite impressive.
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"We know the quality he has, and we will try to impose our game and win the game."
Liverpool fans have expressed concern over Guardiola's comments, given that City have already negotiated with Dortmund this year to sign Erling Haaland.
At present, though, there is no indication that the Citizens are in the market for the midfielder - although, given Guardiola's admiration for the player, that may change in the near future.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Liverpool, Manchester City, Jude Bellingham, Pep Guardiola, Jurgen Klopp