Liverpool could have another Diogo Jota on their hands if they sign Christian Pulisic from Chelsea, according to former Sunderland striker Kevin Phillips.

The American international has been linked with a switch away from Stamford Bridge after finding game time hard to come by under Thomas Tuchel since the German manager’s arrival in January.

Earlier this month, Liverpool and Manchester United were both linked with a summer bid for Pulisic and, asked about the possibility of the 22-year-old moving to Anfield, Phillips said it could prove to be a masterstroke:

“When I hear these comments about him leaving Chelsea, I’m just surprised. I think he’s a fantastic player but if he is to go, he’s the type of player that has the ability to sit just behind that Liverpool front three. He’ll only get better and better as he gets older. It’s like when Jota went to Liverpool, what a signing he’s been. So Pulisic could definitely be one of those players if he went to Liverpool. If I was a Liverpool supporter I’d like to see him playing in my side.”

Fans shouldn’t get too excited about the possible signing of Pulisic, though. Chelsea are very unlikely to sell to a direct rival, but there could be one scenario whereby a deal could happen.

The Blues are very interested in snapping up Borussia Dortmund’s Erling Haaland but, with an asking price of €180m (£154m), they may need funds to finance the transfer so offloading Pulisic could be an option they consider.