€70m player now "likely" to join Liverpool after Jude Bellingham setback

While it looks like Jude Bellingham might not be on his way to Liverpool this summer, there has been more positive news for the Reds regarding another potential signing.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has made Bellingham his No 1 transfer target this summer after being impressed by the midfielder's displays for his former club Borussia Dortmund.

However, it is 'increasingly unlikely' that Liverpool will be able to sign the England international, according to The Athletic's David Ornstein.

It is claimed that the potential cost of signing Bellingham, coupled with Liverpool's struggles this season, have cast doubt over the club's ability to compete for Bellingham.

Dortmund's asking price is expected to be around €150m (£131m) and Liverpool could struggle to meet this – particularly if the club fails to qualify for the Champions League.

It is also claimed that Manchester City and Real Madrid are now in a stronger position to sign the midfielder.

Liverpool 'likely to sign Mount'

But there is more positive news for Liverpool fans with regards to another midfield target.

Liverpool have been strongly linked with Bellingham's England teammate Mason Mount, who is yet to achieve a breakthrough in his contract negotiations with Chelsea.

Mount is out of contract with the Blues in 2024 and talks have stalled over a new long-term deal for the 24-year-old.

The England international, who has been named Chelsea's Player of the Season in the last two campaigns, has reportedly rejected the offer of a seven-year deal with the player unhappy with the terms offered.

Mount is currently one of the lowest-paid senior players at Stamford Bridge and wants a salary similar to his England teammates.

Should Mount fail to sign a new deal, Chelsea could look to cash in on him this summer rather than seeing him leave on a free transfer next summer, with the player currently valued at €70m (£61m) by the CIES Football Observatory.

Newcastle and Manchester United have also been linked with Mount but talkSPORT journalist Alex Crook claims Liverpool are the favourites to sign the England star.

When asked where he believes Mount will end up, Crook said: "I think Liverpool. Obviously Jude Bellingham has been their top target for a while.

"It wouldn't surprise me if Jude Bellingham actually ends up signing a new contract at Borussia Dortmund with a release clause.”

He added: "Contract talks have been at a standstill for some time. And I think Liverpool is his most likely destination."