Liverpool have been keeping a close eye on Aston Villa attacking midfielder Morgan Rogers, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Writing in his column for GiveMeSport, Romano said that the Reds have sent scouts to watch the 22-year-old “several times”.

However, they are not the only team interested in Rogers, with Chelsea said to “appreciate” the player too as they seek to strengthen their options up front.

It does suggest that a battle will ensue between the two teams for the England international’s signature, but there is a big reason why neither club have made him a top target.

Villa are not willing to sell Rogers

The former Manchester City player has had an excellent season for the Villans, having scored 14 goals and provided 13 assists in 50 appearances.

For that reason, Romano says it would be “difficult” for either Liverpool or Chelsea to persuade Unai Emery’s side into offloading Rogers this summer.

While there are Financial Fair Play considerations that could alter Villa’s stance, the player is not believed to be for sale at the moment.

Who could Liverpool sign instead?

It does appear as if the Reds are in the market for a No.10 or potentially a No.9 who is comfortable playing in deeper positions. One of Chelsea’s own players has been linked in recent days.

Chrisstopher Nkunku is set to leave Stamford Bridge, and his representatives have reportedly been in contact about a potential switch to Anfield. However, the general feeling is that the Frenchman will move back to the continent, rather than remain in the Premier League.

Another possible alternative to Rogers is RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons. The Netherlands international can play several different roles and he is set to become available over the coming weeks despite his current team having only signed him on a permanent basis from PSG in January.

Click here to see Liverpool’s first team squad for the 2024/25 season