LIVERPOOL PLAYER JURGEN KLOPP SAID HE WON'T SELL COULD PAY FOR MANU KONE TRANSFER

could secure one of their top targets by selling second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to raise funds. However, Reds boss has already backed himself into a hole by declaring that the Irish shot-stopper is not for sale.

French youngster Manu Kone has been linked with a move to Liverpool as part of Klopp's desire to rejuvenate his midfield. Borussia Monchengladbach reportedly value the 22-year-old at around £30million (€35m).

Liverpool are expected to spend within their means this summer, despite a clear plan to refresh their midfield and defensive options. It means that funds for transfers could be raised through player sales.

However, Klopp has already ruled out a move for valuable asset Kelleher - at least publicly. The German could be forced to U-turn on that stance if a sizeable bid is made. Brentford have been suggested as a possible destination, with the Bees likely to sell David Raya this summer.

Asked if Liverpool's 4-4 final-day draw with Southampton would be Kelleher's last game for the club, Klopp said: "Caoimh Kelleher? He has a contract! You want us to say goodbye just in case?

"I honestly can't see Caoimh leaving. It must be an extraordinary offer for me to start thinking [of selling him], I have to say. Adrian, if we don't say goodbye, what does that mean? That he probably stays.

"If there's nothing in the papers then it's not decided yet, finally. But we will not [say goodbye] just in case. But I have a rather good feeling that we will keep working together in that position."

Liverpool's summer business will likely focus on midfield reinforcements. France U21 starlet Kone is among those reported to be of interest to the Anfield outfit.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that Liverpool have been informed of Kone's £30m valuation after talks took place between representatives of the two clubs this week. Gladbach are supposedly prepared to let the midfielder leave this summer if their price tag is met.

And selling Kelleher could see Liverpool raise the funds directly for the Frenchman, with the keeper likely to command at least £25m to £30m given his quality and age.

Liverpool are reportedly also close to completing a deal for Brighton ace Alexis Mac Allister. The World Cup winner is widely expected to leave Brighton this summer after his imminent departure was all but confirmed by head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

Mac Allister will become Liverpool's first signing ahead of the 2023-24 season. However, it appears the Reds have missed out on signing Chelsea's Mason Mount, who has supposedly agreed to join .

2023-06-02T04:41:29Z dg43tfdfdgfd