Liverpool round-up: Two Coutinho alternatives identified; goalkeeper wants talks; teenage striker targeted

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Liverpool are already considering life without Philippe Coutinho, according to the Mirror, who believe that Napoli’s Lorenzo Insigne and Schalke’s Max Meyer are on the club’s radar as potential replacements. The duo are believed to be Jurgen Klopp’s preferred targets to add creativity into midfield and as an option further forward.

Meyer in particular is believed to be open to the move, but Liverpool’s preference is to hold on to Coutinho. They remain insistent that Coutinho will not be sold but are considering their options in case they receive an offer which they feel they could not refuse from Barcelona.

Another player who may seek an exit is goalkeeper Danny Ward. In pre-season, Jurgen Klopp insisted that he would fight for the number one spot alongside Loris Karius and Simon Mignolet but he was not involved against Watford on Saturday. Now, the Daily Mail say that the Welsh international is seeking talks as to what role he will have in the squad.

David Wagner is keen to bring him back to Huddersfield, where he was a key man in getting the Terriers promoted to the Premier League via the play-offs. Ward may push for that move to happen if he has no role to play at Anfield.

Ward may be a strong option to retain going into the future and the club may look to add another, as the Mirror say that Liverpool have joined Newcastle in pursuing Hartlepool’s teen striker Connor Simpson. The 17-year-old made two appearances last season as Hartlepool were relegated from League Two.

He is yet to sign a professional contract at the club high may make a deal more likely. Simpson has been compared to West Ham striker Andy Carroll for his physical style. That may not bring back good memories for Liverpool fans but he is a very highly rated young talent.