Rumoured Liverpool transfer target Matheus Nunes will remain in Portugal next season with his current club following talks with manager Ruben Amorim, according to fresh reports.
The Reds have been linked with the midfielder for some time, although a number of other clubs have also been credited with interest. Reports even this week suggested a move could be completed this window.
However, Portuguese outlet O Jogo have now highlighted the manager's reluctance to part ways with Nunes and suggest he has 'convinced' the player to stay at least another season. The report adds it would take at least £51m to get Sporting to even consider sanctioning a move, a fee that would likely put most potential suitors off.
EXCLUSIVE: Darwin Nunez is ready for 'big step' at Liverpool and three players prove it
READ MORE: Liverpool have quietly made big 'statement' after crucial Jurgen Klopp change
Liverpool have had a busy summer so far with the additions of Calvin Ramsay, Fabio Carvalho and a potential record breaking move for Darwin Nunez. It has been well documented in recent weeks the club have no desire to add to their squad further this summer, with attention turning to next year.
Jurgen Klopp himself reiterated this stance in an interview with Sky Sports, insisting they will only turn to the transfer market again this window if they absolutely have to. He said: "If nobody wants to leave, we are done. Or if a bad injury comes in...I don't hope so. But Liverpool fans can start focusing on other things."
Nunes is currently under contract at Sporting until at least 2026, meaning the Portuguese outfit are in no pressed position to sell. He only signed an extension last October and is a key member of the squad under manager Amorim.
In the long-term though, it is clear Liverpool will be looking to bolster their midfield. Jude Bellingham is one name in particular who has plenty of admirers inside Anfield.
READ NEXT:
-
Every word of Paddy Pimblett's heartbreaking speech after UFC London win
-
Jurgen Klopp reveals Liverpool transfer plan for this window and two things that could change it
-
Mohamed Salah has big advantage that may explain his new Liverpool contract
-
Paddy 'The Baddy' Pimblett cruises to submission victory at UFC London to extend unbeaten run
-
Four things spotted in Liverpool training as Darwin Nunez shares new look and Alisson returns