Liverpool have targeted England star Kalvin Phillips as an alternative signing to Jude Bellingham this summer.
The Reds want to take advantage of Phillips' situation at Manchester City, where he has found himself frozen out this season. So the German has made Phillips one of his main targets as he looks to strengthen his ageing midfield.
It's understood Liverpool have let it be known Phillips is on their radar - and the 27-year-old is open to a move to Anfield, report the Daily Star. Phillips joined City in a £50m deal from Leeds last summer and was relishing the chance to play for Pep Guardiola.
But his move to the Etihad has turned into a living nightmare. He underwent a shoulder operation in September which ruled him out of action until the start of the World Cup in Qatar.
Phillips found himself out of favour at the Etihad following a break in New York with friends after the World Cup, where he did feature for the Three Lions.
Guardiola was unimpressed by Phillips' choice to take his full allocation of nine days' holiday before returning to Manchester out of shape.
Phillips was banished from training by the City boss and has since started only two games in all competitions.
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The former Leeds midfielder is yet to start in the Premier League for the champions and did not feature in their 3-0 victory over Sheffield United at Wembley in the FA Cup semi-final on Saturday, despite the absence of Rodri.
West Ham are also interested in taking Phillips to the London Stadium, but the player would favour a chance to restart his career at Anfield and boost his chances of a Euros berth with the Three Lions.
