There is no truth in a rumour linking Liverpool with a swap deal involving Thiago Alcantara and Franck Kessie, according to James Pearce.

The Lowdown: Liverpool linked with Kessie move

The Reds did minimal transfer business in the summer window and it may be that Jurgen Klopp is far busier next year, adding some freshness to his squad.

One report has linked Liverpool with a move for AC Milan midfielder Kessie, with Thiago surprisingly tipped to head the other way.

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The Latest: Pearce shuts down rumour

Speaking in a Q&A for The Athletic on Sunday, however, Pearce claimed there was no truth in the rumour at all, with Thiago not going anywhere

When asked by a Liverpool supporter about the Reds' apparent interest in the AC Milan midfielder, the journalist replied: "Not aware of any truth in the Kessie speculation mate. Certainly the idea of a swap deal with Thiago is absolutely ridiculous. No chance. For a start Kessie is a free agent next summer."

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The Verdict: Thiago a vital player to Liverpool

It makes no sense whatsoever to sell Thiago, with his superb performance away to Leeds United last weekend summing up his brilliance and importance to Klopp's side.

Granted, his Reds career is yet to fully ignite - he was injured for several months last season - but he looks fit, fresh and ready to become one of Liverpool's most influential players. For instance, only three of his team-mates can better his average of 1.7 tackles per match.

He has forged a great understanding with Fabinho in midfield, so the idea of suddenly breaking that up just to sign Kessie makes no sense at all. Hopefully Pearce's short shrift of the rumoured swap deal proves accurate.

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been left wowed by a gesture from one Reds player. Read more here.