Liverpool 'plotting bids for two Manchester United targets' as Jurgen Klopp closes in on first summer signing

Liverpool are considering transfer bids to sign two Manchester United targets this summer, it has been reported.

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the Reds are closing in on the signing of Brighton star Alexis Mac Allister, having 'presented their project' to the player in a meeting.

The 24-year-old, who won the World Cup with Argentina last year, is also said to have received a financial proposal from Liverpool, with a transfer away from the Amex Stadium looking increasingly likely.

He has scored 10 goals in all competitions this term and, as a player who is comfortable playing on either side of midfield or in a more advanced role, would add a new element to the Reds' refreshed team next season.

Last month, Romano claimed that United were also in the race to sign Mac Allister - meaning Liverpool could well have moved ahead of Erik ten Hag's side in their pursuit of the Argentina star.

And he is not the only United target that the Reds could steal a march on them to sign.

Liverpool 'consider move for two Man Utd targets'

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, Klopp is interested in signing Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona, as he has one eye on the current financial situation at the Nou Camp.

Xavi's side may be forced to sell key players this summer in order to bring back Lionel Messi, who is reportedly leaving PSG at the end of the season on a free transfer.

United pursued the Dutchman for much of last summer's window, but could not convince him to make the move to Old Trafford.

They did eventually complete a move for a midfielder, with Casemiro joining the three-time Champions League and European Cup winners from Real Madrid.

De Jong, meanwhile, revealed in October that he never planned to join United, instead preferring to stay at Barca.

He told Dutch outlet NOS: "I had already decided in May that I wanted to stay. So I was very calm myself. I now feel welcome at the club. Nothing has ever changed with my team-mates."

Whether either Liverpool or United can convince the 24-year-old to join their club this time around remains to be seen - but Ten Hag's side will be desperate not to lose out on a transfer target to their fierce rivals.