Phil Thompson believes that Liverpool must have their hat in the ring for Declan Rice this summer.

The Lowdown: A midfield signing is necessary

A lot has been made and talked about in regard to Liverpool's midfield and the issues Jurgen Klopp is having to deal with in that area this season in particular.

Therefore, links suggesting they could make a big-money move shouldn't be too much of a surprise and the names being linked would certainly be a statement of intent with the likes of Jude Bellingham and Rice on the cusp of many people's lips.

It's been reported that Liverpool are indeed favourites to sign Bellingham this summer after he's impressed out in the Bundesliga, but if he proves to be too expensive or wanted by other clubs, Rice could well be an alternative.

The Latest: Declan Rice is a solid Bellingham alternative

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/liverpool-transfer-news-and-rumours/" title="Liverpool Transfer News and Rumours" poster="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/cropped-2021-03-07T155652Z_1459311687_UP1EH3718ASBK_RTRMADP_3_SOCCER-ENGLAND-LIV-FUL-REPORT.jpg" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

Former Liverpool ace Thompson has been speaking on the Off The Ball YouTube channel about how the Reds must be in the conversation for Premier League star Rice this summer.

He said: (8:20) "There are others out there if Bellingham wasn't available. We need to have our hat in the ring for Declan Rice.

"If Declan is that unhappy then he's another player who I think is a good player and with the right attitude, with what would constitute to a Liverpool player and that would all sort of fit the bill."

The Verdict: Liverpool must go big this summer

If Liverpool are wanting to get back to the very top and compete with the likes of Manchester City and Arsenal they need to address their midfield woes that have been ever-present since they lost Georginio Wijnaldum.

Liverpool's midfield has players that are very raw and young in the form of Harvey Elliot and Stefan Bajcetic and then players who are starting to lose their legs and pace such as Jordan Henderson and Thiago.

Therefore, being able to bring in Rice would allow him to help develop the younger players given the ability and experience he already has, but would also allow Klopp to have a midfield he can build around for the next few years at least.