Liverpool have given up on their pursuit of Barcelona midfielder Gavi and are now negotiating a deal with Leeds United for Kalvin Phillips.
17-year-old Gavi is already a key player for the Catalan giants but lengthy negotiations over a new contract at the Camp Nou had offered Liverpool hope of snatching one of European football’s brightest prospects.
His current deal expires in 2023 with Jurgen Klopp’s side prepared to activate his £40million release clause to bring him to Anfield.
SPORT however now report Liverpool have dropped their interest having learned Gavi intends to sign a new deal – which will include a huge bump in his salary and a $1billion release clause.
Barcelona are expected to confirm Gavi’s new deal this week with Liverpool now considering the ‘case closed’.
The report adds Liverpool have swiftly moved on and are already negotiating a deal to sign Phillips from Leeds.
Phillips has two years left on his current contract at Elland Road but could move on this summer.
Manchester United are huge admirers of the England international but the bitter rivalry between the two clubs means a deal is unlikely.
Phillips has reportedly made it clear to those close to him that there is no way he could swap Leeds for the red half of Manchester and fears such a move would tarnish his reputation with Leeds fans.
Manchester City meanwhile are also keen to sign the 26-year-old with Pep Guardiola viewing him as a replacement for Fernandinho, who will leave the club after nine years this summer.
But City now appear to face stiff competition from Liverpool for the midfielder’s signature.
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