Liverpool are unlikely to make a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez due to his “massive” wage demands, according to The Athletic journalist James Pearce.

The former Liverpool Echo reporter claims that while the Spaniard has been offered to a number of teams, he would be surprised if the player ended up at Anfield before the transfer window closed:

“Unless there’s a change of heart from Liverpool, I can’t see it. He’s been offered around to a host of clubs but his wage demands are massive.”

Niguez is reportedly available for between €40m (£34m) And €45m (£38m), which seems to be a reasonable price considering his quality and age. Other Premier League teams, including Manchester United and Chelsea have also been linked with the 26-year-old.

Liverpool’s wage bill is, however, one of the highest in the top flight, and with new contracts being handed out to the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Alisson Becker and Fabinho, (with extensions for Virgil van Dijk and Mo Salah also likely), it seems the Reds have drawn a line by refusing to meet Niguez’s salary expectations.