Liverpool never reached the stage of opening talks with Inter midfielder Nicolo Barella despite links to a summer move, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Liverpool linked with Barella move

The Reds had a quiet summer, only signing Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig, but Barella was one player they were linked with signing.

The 24-year-old enjoyed a memorable Euro 2020 campaign with Italy, winning the competition and starting six of his side's seven matches.

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The Latest: Romano rubbishes rumour

The reliable Romano took to Twitter on Saturday to confirm that Barella is set to extend his stay with Inter instead of moving on to pastures new.

He also added in a seven-word verdict that a move to Liverpool was never really on the cards:

"Liverpool never opened talks to sign him."

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The Verdict: Was he needed?

Barella is an excellent footballer who has proved himself at the top level already, but bringing him in would have felt like overkill in Liverpool's midfield.

Jurgen Klopp already has numerous strong options in the middle of the park, from experienced heads such as Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, Thiago, Naby Keita and James Milner, to younger players like Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott.

Barella would likely have been a good signing had he come in, but there didn't feel like a crucial need to make it happen.

In other news, some Liverpool fans have reacted to some key news ahead of the clash with Manchester United. Read more here.