Liverpool have made contact with the agents of Leicester attacking midfielder James Maddison, according to reports in the English media.

The Reds are believed to have identified the 26-year-old as a potential alternative to Mason Mount, who could yet remain at Chelsea this summer.

Maddison is expected to be sold for around £50m, which would likely make him a cheaper option as well, and he has also been in better form than his England international teammate.

The 26-year-old has racked up nine goals and contributed six assists in just 21 appearances this campaign, despite the fact that the Foxes are struggling in the league.

Maddison does, of course, have other suitors. Tottenham have reportedly registered their interest but the biggest threat is said to be Newcastle. The Magpies failed in an attempt to secure the playmaker’s signature last year but they could well make another offer at the end of the season. The fact that Eddie Howe’s team could offer Champions League football may also make them favourites to sign the player. We shall see how this transfer story unfolds.