Liverpool have “entered the game strongly” to sign Ajax winger Antony, according to Yahoo Esportes journalist Jorge Nicola.

The Brazilian reporter claims that Jurgen Klopp’s side have even gone as far as holding talks with Ajax about signing the player.

Manchester United have also been heavily linked to Antony but their focus has switched to signing his teammate Lisandro Martinez, so the Merseyside club could get the upper hand in negotiations.

One complicating factor, though, would be the 22-year-old’s asking price. Some reports have suggested that Ajax could demand up to €80m (£68m) for the forward this summer.

The Eredivisie champions are in a strong position financially, with the £46.5m they will receive from the Martinez sale set to be added to the transfer coffers, after already getting sizeable sums for the likes of Sebastien Haller and Ryan Gravenberch.

Competition could also help push up Antony’s valuation. In addition to United, Chelsea have also been mentioned as a potential suitor for the Brazilian international in recent months.