According to a report from FCInterNews, Liverpool are interested in signing Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos.
The lowdown: Liverpool snub
Previously, Jurgen Klopp attempted to bring the attack-minded Spaniard to Anfield but Ceballos rejected the move in favour of a link-up with now Villarreal boss and compatriot Unai Emery.
The 25-year-old spent the 2019/2020 and 2020/21 campaigns on loan at Arsenal, making 77 appearances for the north London club.
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Ceballos has since returned to Spain but has found life difficult under Carlo Ancelotti at the Bernabeu.
Out of contract in 2023 (Transfermarkt), this upcoming summer transfer market could be a pivotal one, as the La Liga giants are running out of time to cash in for a fee.
The latest: Reds are interested
As per the report from FCInterNews, Liverpool are once again keen on the Spanish international, but it's Inter Milan who are leading the way.
Valencia and Sevilla are also mentioned as suitors whilst the Reds are said to be 'monitoring the situation' of the man described as 'very clever' by Arsenal legend Robin van Persie following a dramatic late winner against Sheffield United in an FA Cup quarter-final.
It's claimed that the interest from all parties is at an early stage and no potential fee has been mentioned for the 11-cap Spain ace.
The verdict: Shrewd move
Predominantly a central midfielder, Ceballos offers supreme versatility with the ability to play in a variety of defensive and attacking positions and would therefore be a welcome addition to Klopp's squad.
Already boasting an impressive trophy cabinet containing a UEFA Champions League, Spanish Super Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and a European Under-21 Championship, the former Real Betis man has the required elite level experience to fit seamlessly into the Anfield ranks.
Underpinning a decline since returning to Spain, having once been valued at £40.5million, the now £13.5million valued star has made just 12 outings across all competitions this season and a summer departure seems inevitable.
If that does indeed come to fruition, Liverpool and new sporting director Julian Ward should be attentive to the possibility of landing a bargain deal.