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In recent weeks, Liverpool has been linked with a number of players outside the transfer window, suggesting something could be brewing ahead of the near future.

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Perhaps the biggest story ahead of the January transfer window is the long-term future of Mohamed Salah, who has entered the final 12 months of his current deal at Liverpool and will leave on a free transfer at the end of the season as things stand.

In fact, the Egyptian can discuss pre-contract agreements with other clubs in less than four months time, meaning the Reds are really up against the clock if they want to avoid such a scenario.

Should Salah leave, however, then Liverpool may already have his replacement ready and waiting.

The report now claims Liverpool is prepared to trigger Kubo's €60million ($66m/£51m) release clause, reflecting its serious intent.

The Japanese international recently spent time with current Reds midfielder Wataru Endo during the international break for high-scoring victories over China and Bahrain, and Liverpool could look to exploit their friendship in order to get a deal over the line.

Elsewhere, Liverpool has been named as one of several clubs who could swoop for Lille midfielder and recent England international Angel Gomes, who will become available on a free transfer at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract.

That's according to the Metro, although the likes of Borussia Dortmund, Tottenham and Newcastle are also interested in the former Manchester United midfielder, with the latter said to be weighing up a move for the player in January

It comes amid a report from Caught Offside that claims Liverpool has been "firmly put on red alert" over the contract situation of Jamal Musiala, with negotiations over an extension with Bayern Munich said to be far from being finalized
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