Bournemouth have not yet opened talks with Nat Phillips over a permanent move from Liverpool this summer, according to journalist Alex Crook.

The Lowdown: Phillips impresses for Bournemouth

The centre-back famously helped the Reds qualify for the Champions League last season, filling in during a defensive injury crisis for Jurgen Klopp.

It was clear that Phillips wasn't going to be a key man once Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez returned, however, and he joined Bournemouth on loan in January.

The 25-year-old has impressed for the Cherries, making 17 appearances, and it looks highly likely that he will leave Liverpool permanently during the summer transfer window.

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The Latest: Journalist provides update

Taking to Twitter, Crook claimed that Phillips is not a certainty to remain at Bournemouth, though, with talks over a move not yet underway:

The Verdict: Time to move on

It makes complete sense for Phillips to end his stay at Liverpool this summer, with Klopp clearly not seeing him as a key player moving forward.

For all his excellent performances last season  - he has been hailed as 'unbelievable' by Jamie Redknapp - it is time for him to become a regular on a permanent basis elsewhere.

Phillips is more than capable of thriving for a low-end Premier League side and with Bournemouth earning promotion it would be ideal for him to join the Cherries.

In other news, Liverpool are eyeing up a move for one player. Find out who it is here.