Liverpool's ambitious transfer plans for England duo Jude Bellingham and Mason Mount could be scuppered by Newcastle United and their other top-four rivals. Jurgen Klopp is said to be in the market for midfield reinforcements following the Reds' indifferent start to the campaign.
Liverpool sit sixth in the Premier League table, eight points adrift of third-placed Newcastle although they do hold a game in hand. Klopp has already admitted his side's early inconsistency could cost them in their pursuit of a top-four finish, with competition for a place in next season's Champions League already hotting up.
Reports suggest Liverpool are lining up prospective summer moves for both Bellingham and Mount, with the latter yet to commit to a new deal at Chelsea. However, both deals could hinge upon whether the FA Cup and Carabao Cup holders secure a top-four finish according to the Daily Express, with Newcastle currently on course to take up one of those spots this season.
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Klopp has long been credited with an interest in Bellingham, who is now expected to be a key figure for England at the World Cup following a stunning start to the campaign with Borussia Dortmund. A summer switch to the Premier League could be on the cards after the Bundesliga club's CEO Hans-Joachim Watzke admitted the 19-year-old would be allowed to depart should his asking price be met.
Mount has emerged as a surprise link in recent weeks, with the Blues playmaker still to agree new terms despite lengthy contract negotiations at Stamford Bridge. If no breakthrough is reached, Juventus and Manchester City along with Liverpool have been linked with a potential cut-price deal.
However, Liverpool could reportedly see moves for both England internationals falter without the promise of Champions League football. Eddie Howe has so far been quick to dismiss any talk of European football, but as it stands Newcastle are already proving to be a disruptor for the so-called 'Big Six'.
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