Thursday 3 August 2017 10:14, UK
The latest Liverpool transfer news and rumours from across the British and European press on Thursday, August 3.
Liverpool target Virgil van Dijk is close to forcing his way out of Southampton after a series of tense meetings with the club this week, according to the Daily Mirror.
The Daily Star also reports that Southampton face being backed into a corner over their refusal to sell the Dutchman to Liverpool.
Brazilian legend Ronaldinho believes Liverpool's star Philippe Coutinho could make the switch to Barcelona.
"There are only very few players in the world who can replace Neymar - and I have said that I think Coutinho could play for them.
"He is at a level where he could come and fill the gap left by Neymar - but Liverpool will know his worth and after the fees of this summer it will cost Barcelona."
Barcelona are ready to step up their attempts to sign Coutinho with Neymar on his way to PSG, reports The Sun.
However, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has warned Barcelona not to even waste their time trying to sign Coutinho as Neymar's replacement.
Klopp said: "It's nice that Coutinho is so highly rated but they can save their energy.
"In this moment it is about transfers and I have nothing to say. I cannot talk about this just because a Barcelona guy starts talking. Did he say they come to Liverpool and do business, something like this? They want to come over, they are funny. I don't want things like this."
Meanwhile, Liverpool are still in the mix to sign Monaco striker Kylian Mbappe, according to reports in France.
And finally, RB Leipzig chief Ralf Rangnick has conceded Liverpool target Naby Keita is unlikely to sign a new deal at the Bundesliga club
"I am not currently assuming that we will be able to extend his contract prematurely,' Rangnick told Sport Bild.
"I can assure you that Naby will be playing with us this season. All other scenarios also depend on how we do this season, how Naby plays himself and so on."
