The future of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain looks set to be decided within the next day amid ongoing speculation linking him to a move away from Arsenal.
Liverpool are known to have been targeting the England star this summer, with Jurgen Klopp keen to strength his midfield options.
That said, suggestions earlier in the transfer window that Anfield was his most likely destination have since failed to materialise into anything and, in turn, opened the door for Chelsea to swoop in.
The 2016/2017 Premier League champions are rumoured to be leading the race for the 24-year-old, although there has been little to suggest the Reds have abandoned their interest altogether.
Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol has reported that Arsenal will decide within the next day whether they will let Oxlade-Chamberlain leave, after the player recently rejected a new contract worth £180,000-a-week at the Emirates.
Arsenal to tell Oxlade-Chamberlain in next 24 hours if he can leave. Wants to go. Turned down £180k a week deal. Chelsea, Liverpool want him
— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) August 25, 2017
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A desire to play regular football in his preferred central midfield role has, for much of the summer, been identified as the basis of Oxlade-Chamberlain’s wish to continue his career elsewhere.
His latest rejection of a new deal serves as further evidence that it isn’t down to money, but instead his heart being set on taking on a fresh challenge.
Though a regular starting spot isn’t promised at Liverpool, it also isn’t at Chelsea, thereby making it an even battle were the Reds to reignite their pursuit.
Besides this, Klopp’s 4-3-3 setup means the former Southampton starlet would have a better chance of featuring in his favoured position.
If he becomes available, it’s a deal Liverpool must pounce on.