Liverpool have reportedly stepped up their efforts to fill the playmaker void left by Philippe Coutinho following his move to Barcelona.
The Reds have coped admirably since failing to find a replacement for the Brazilian in January, not only looking in good shape to secure a top four finish but also progressing further than the Catalan giants in the Champions League.
Jurgen Klopp will be delighted with his side’s attacking performance levels, but also undoubtedly keen to inject added creativity over the summer.
Real Madrid’s Dani Ceballos has emerged as a potential option having fallen out-of-favour under Zinedine Zidane.
The Spaniard is deemed a long-term occupant of a place on Liverpool’s transfer wish list and has recently been subject to intensified contact from the club over a possible four-year deal, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato.
SEE MORE:
Virgil Van Dijk given glowing review from unlikely source…
Ceballos has struggled to kick on since being named Player of the Tournament in Spain’s winning U21 European Championship campaign last year.
Madrid’s loss could prove Liverpool’s gain, however, with his vision and footwork well-tailored to a role behind a front three of willing runners in Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane.
Monaco’s Thomas Lemar could also resurface as a contender for the role after the Reds eased interest in the Frenchman in January in light of his hefty asking-price.
The recruitment of a new attacking midfielder sits alongside the arrival of an Emre Can replacement as priorities in the summer window.