Liverpool have been in contact with the representatives of Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, according to ESPN.

The Reds are said to be interested in doing a deal during the January transfer window if the Dutchman decides to quit the Camp Nou due to a lack of game time.

Manchester United and Chelsea were the two clubs pursuing de Jong’s signature in the summer, with Erik ten Hag’s side having even agreed a fee for the midfielder.

However, after spending over £200m on players, it is believed that United are the least likely to make a move for the 25-year-old in the New Year. Liverpool’s main rivals are expected to be Chelsea.

The Blues could lose both Jorginho and N’Golo Kante at the end of the season when their contracts expire and they are keen to bring in reinforcements in the middle of the park.

Liverpool, by the same measure, could lose three midfielders in June, with Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner having yet to sign new deals.