Liverpool ‘reluctant’ to pay reported fee for high-profile summer target

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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will move to Liverpool in the summer, or so recent reports had fans believe.

Rumours linking the Arsenal star to a move to Anfield in January were dubbed as “nonsense” by Jurgen Klopp yet it appears a deal is possible when the transfer window re-opens.

Chamberlain poses as one of a few supposedly confirmed attacking targets with the club keen to bolster the squad’s strength in depth to ensure Liverpool can compete with not only the Premier League’s top sides but also Europe’s elite for years to come.

Liverpool will be capable of meeting his reported £35 million price-tag with the Fenway Sports Group owners set to hand Klopp the largest transfer kitty in the club’s history. Whether or not they choose to do so is another matter.

“Oxlade-Chamberlain is on a long list of options for the Merseysiders as they seek to fortify their first XI, as well as enhance their quality in squad depth ahead of the new campaign. He would fall into the latter category, with his ability to play across midfield and as a wide forward boxing off increased competition in several positions,” reported Goal.com’s Melissa Reddy.

“Entering the final year of his existing deal this summer, a fee closer to £20m is more realistic.”

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The England star is blessed with the pace, power, creativity and athleticism that would make him well-suited to Klopp’s setup and his love of versatility.

He has scored six goals and made six assists so far this season, posing as one of few Arsenal players capable of holding his head high in this difficult period for the London club.

Excitement surrounding his potential arrival is fuelled by the thought of what Klopp could do for an incredibly talented young man who is seemingly short on confidence.

Though £20 million seems a reasonable sum, many would argue that paying more could well be worth it.

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