Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett has revealed that persuading Joe Gomez to sign a new deal is a 'key target' for Liverpool sporting director Julian Ward.

The Lowdown: Aston Villa interest

It has been widely reported that Aston Villa are interested in signing the 25-year-old this summer, as their manager Steven Gerrard looks to raid his former club.

The defender only made 21 appearances in total across all competitions last season, fewer than Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Ibrahima Konate (Transfermarkt), and has seemingly fallen down the pecking order under Jurgen Klopp.

The Latest: Contract talks

Taking to Twitter, Dorsett has revealed that Gomez is now in 'fresh talks' over a new deal at Anfield, and convincing him to sign on is a 'key target' for Ward.

The journalist tweeted: "Joe Gomez in fresh talks over a contract extension at #lfc. Securing his future is a key target for new sporting director Julian Ward. Klopp wants to keep him. No approach from #avfc or elsewhere as yet, I’m told."

The Verdict: Surprising

It does seem surprising that both Ward and Klopp would want Gomez to sign a new deal, given his lack of game-time at Liverpool.

Being 25 years of age, boasting substantial Premier League experience (87 games) and given his homegrown status, the Reds could demand a sizeable fee for him in the current transfer window, especially if they sell him to a domestic rival.

Gomez surely has ambitions of making England's World Cup squad too, having not played for the Three Lions since 2020, so it would perhaps be a surprising move from him if he chooses to stay put.