Liverpool have discussed the prospect of signing West Ham midfielder Declan Rice following the end of their pursuit of Jude Bellingham, as per Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg. 

Rice is widely regarded as one of the most talented midfielders in English football, with his versatility in different midfield positions being one of his strengths.

The Reds have been vocal about their need for new midfielders. Jurgen Klopp frequently mentions it as an area that needs strengthening during the upcoming summer transfer window. 

After withdrawing from the bid for Dortmund midfielder Bellingham as they felt the deal to be “too expensive,” the Reds will now focus on other midfielders, with Rice seeming to be a long-term priority as he prepares to leave the Hammers this summer.

News #LFC: Still on the shortlist and being discussed with #Klopp confirmed: Rice, Caicedo, Barella, Gravenberch and Nunes. Klopp 100 % involved in the decision not to buy #Bellingham. Decision was taken with the owners. @SkySportDE 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 pic.twitter.com/IzDthesnAV

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) April 12, 2023

Plettenberg confirms that in addition to Rice and Moises Caicedo, Liverpool are also considering Nicolo Barella from Inter, Matheus Nunes from Wolves, and Ryan Gravenberch from Bayern Munich to bolster their midfield.

Deciding the fate of Declan Rice

Liverpool are planning to make significant changes to their squad during the upcoming transfer window, with a focus on acquiring at least two new midfielders.

Klopp is said to be impressed with Rice’s ability to control the midfield and offer protection to the backline and have been following his progress for some time.

The cost of acquiring the defensive midfielder, however, is expected to be around £75 million, but David Moyes has made it clear that it would require a British transfer record to lure the midfielder away.

🥈| “Discrete” enquires have been made by Liverpool for Declan Rice. The West Ham midfielder would cost over £75m. [@MaddockMirror] pic.twitter.com/ncz7zNONtJ

— Anfield Edition (@AnfieldEdition) April 12, 2023

Furthermore, they may face competition from other clubs like Arsenal, who have reportedly shown interest in him as well.

The Guardian reported in March that the move to Arsenal is “likely” to occur this summer, which could put Liverpool at a disadvantage in the race to sign the 24-year-old.