With Jordan Henderson and Fabinho headed to Saudi Arabia in quick succession, Liverpool, shorthanded for a defensive midfielder to anchor the team, sought Brighton midfielder Moises Caicedo and Southampton midfielder Romeo Lavia, only to miss both.
Liverpool, who have been asked to rework their squad, have been keeping a close eye on midfielders who have been active in the Premier League, while revisiting the likes of Andre (Fluminense) and Ryan Gravenberch (Bayern Munich), who have been of interest for some time.
According to the Independent, the Reds are set to make a move for Mali midfielder Cheick Doucoure from Crystal Palace.
The transfer fee is expected to be within £60 million, but the report also states that France U-21 international Michael Olise is also close to a move to Chelsea and may hesitate to release several players.
In addition, the player has stated that he has no problem playing at Anfield and that negotiations on an individual contract will not be delayed.
Other options include Fulham midfielder João Palhinha and Nice midfielder Khéphren Thuram, and things are likely to take a sudden turn as the Premier League season gets underway.
Cheick Doucoure made his first challenge in England last summer from Stade de Reims. Last season, his first season, he played 35 games. With his abundant mobility and athleticism, he supported the team from the bottom of midfield and contributed to the turnaround in the second half of the season.
This season, he was a starter in the opening game of the season and played 90 minutes. The player has become an indispensable part of Crystal Palace, but can he be the savior of a Liverpool team facing a difficult challenge…?