Monday 31st Liverpool Daily News

Liverpool's lack of a holding midfielder remains a major issue. Wharton, Koné and Alex Scott are options, while Endo, Nyoni, McConnell or Jacquet could fill the role.

Liverpool have made a fresh offer for Ismaila Sarr, with talks ongoing and the winger keen on the move. Palace are yet to respond and remain in a strong position.

Van Dijk called Barcola "a good player" as Liverpool near a £123m deal. Talks also continue with Crystal Palace over Ismaila Sarr after a £50m bid was rejected.

Liverpool have contacted Pedro Neto's agent as they seek a Gakpo replacement alongside Barcola. Chelsea are demanding close to £100m for the winger.

Gary Neville said Liverpool's recruitment is "bizarre", warning Iraola is short in defence and midfield, and questioning the possible £85m sale of Gakpo to Man City.

Van Dijk urged Liverpool to keep Gakpo, calling him "very important", despite a £123m Barcola deal and growing talk of the forward joining Manchester City.

Liverpool have conceded four in two league games under Iraola, with full-backs Frimpong and Kerkez exposed and the lack of a holding midfielder leaving the defence open.

Liverpool have opened talks with Bournemouth over Rayan as Gakpo nears an exit. The Brazil forward has a reported £130m release clause from 2027.

Liverpool are close to selling Gakpo to Manchester City and signing Barcola. If no other winger arrives, they could revive interest in Yankuba Minteh in January.

Liverpool have opened talks with Genk for 6ft 7in keeper Lucca Brughmans if Giorgi Mamardashvili leaves, while Cody Gakpo is reportedly ready to join Manchester City.

Liverpool's likely options for Friday's trip to Ipswich include an early call on Bradley Barcola, with Szoboszlai offering Iraola a tactical solution.

Alexis Mac Allister's father said the midfielder is "not thinking about leaving Liverpool" and wants to stay, though no contract renewal talks have started.

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