Liverpool are backing away from signing Jude Bellingham as they reassess their summer spending plans after a disappointing season.
The Reds have been linked with Bellingham for so long now.
Even going back to last summer, it sounded like Liverpool were saving up their cash to go for Bellingham.
The news on Liverpool’s hopes have been up and down but they now appear to be over.
The Times report that Liverpool are cooling their interest in Bellingham due to budget issues.
It’s stated that Liverpool missing out on the Champions League means Liverpool have to reassess their spending plans.
Blowing a huge fee on just one player isn’t seen as a wise decision right now given that Liverpool need a number of signings.
The Telegraph report similar, but add that boss Klopp is fully on board with the decision.
Additionally, Klopp wants to get his business done early this summer and there is a fear the Bellingham race will drag on.
This will be a hugely unpopular decision with Liverpool fans, who have been dreaming of Bellingham arriving at Anfield.
It seems like it just isn’t meant to be and Liverpool’s unimpressive campaign is really costing them now.
Who could Liverpool sign instead of Jude Bellingham?
Rather than spending £100million-plus on one player, Liverpool could look to invest in two or even three midfielders.
Chelsea ace Mason Mount seems like a prime candidate amid strong rumours of a move to Anfield.
Blues teammate Conor Gallagher is another Liverpool target and would bring the energy that Jurgen Klopp wants.
Brighton and Hove Albion duo Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo have both been heavily linked in recent times.
Prising both players from Brighton won’t be easy or cheap, but they suit the profile Liverpool want.
Wolves pair Ruben Neves and Matheus Nunes are also on the radar though one with question marks; Neves over his athleticism and Nunes over his consistency.
Missing out on Bellingham of course hurts, but Liverpool may be able to completely overhaul their midfield rather than rely on just one player to change everything.
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