And so another transfer saga begins.
Sadio Mane was not the name most Liverpool supporters were expecting to see involved in a bidding war this summer, with Mohamed Salah seeming the more likely of the two to move on and seek a new challenge. But such is the unpredictable nature of football, Jurgen Klopp's side could find themselves without both of their star forwards by this time next year.
Bayern Munich have already got the ball rolling with an initial offer worth £25million, though this was instantly knocked back by the Reds. Liverpool are holding firm over the Senegalese star and won't be pushed into accepting any bid they believe undervalues the attacking quality offered by the 30-year-old.
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The problem for Liverpool, though, is the Bundesliga giants find themselves in an identical position with wantaway striker Robert Lewandowski. The Polish international recently made clear his stance on his future ahead of a Nations League game with Wales, telling reporters: "One thing is certain today, my story with Bayern is over. After everything that has happened in recent months, I cannot imagine further good co-operation. I realise a transfer will be the best solution for both sides."
Reluctant to offload their prolific marksman, who is being tipped to sign for Barcelona, Bayern are keen to have a replacement lined up for Lewandowski if left with no other option other than to offload the 33-year-old though remain confident they will not be backed into a corner.
Explaining Bayern's stance on the matter, club president Herbert Hainer told BILD : "We're in the fortunate position that we don't have any financial difficulties. We want to have the best players and Robert is one of the best. That's why I'm confident that he'll be with us again next season. Robert is a full professional, he wants to play football."
That both clubs are adopting a similarly defiant stance over their prized assets suggests this could be a long summer for all concerned, with Mane and Lewandowski not being allowed to walk away from their current employers at their own will. Lewandowski's firm response when quizzed on his future has provided a clear indication of his desire to depart, meanwhile Mane has not been prepared to give as much away, adopting more of a light-hearted tone with his responses.
For the time being, It's back to the drawing board for Bayern, who are expected to test Liverpool's resolve with an improved, second offer. Klopp's side will be in no rush to get around the negotiating table, however, as they look to identity a suitable replacement for Mane before agreeing to any proposal. The ECHO understands Benfica forward Darwin Nunez is a player of interest, but the highly-rated Uruguay international is one of several forwards being assessed with the Reds unwilling to pay over the odds in their attempt to continue evolving their attack.
Though only the start of June, the transfer window is in full swing. Liverpool are very much at the heart of things in the market as things stand - a theme that may continue right until the deadline for deals to be completed.
