Fabrizio Romano has explained why Liverpool ‘left the conversation’ to sign Dean Huijsen and are now focusing on an alternative transfer target instead.

Hope would appear to be running out if Liverpool are to stand any chance of signing Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth. Real Madrid have moved into pole position for the central defender, reportedly pushed by expected new manager Xabi Alonso, and are hoping to finalise a deal in time for the FIFA Club World Cup.

The i Paper can reveal that the asking price for Milos Kerkez, a target for Liverpool, is set at £45m. Despite talks between the two clubs in recent weeks, the Reds are yet to table a firm offer, with Liverpool also considering Ajax’s versatile Jorrel Hato, who would be available for less.

Finally, Real Madrid are close to announcing the signing of 26-year-old English right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, who are demanding a compensation fee of £840,000 in order for him to play in the Club World Cup. ( ESPN)

Liverpool are looking to bolster their defensive ranks this summer.Right now, a new right-back is a priority for the Premier League champions and the Reds appear to have settled on Jeremie Frimpong

Los Blancos are in the heart of a defensive rebuild, with Trent Alexander-Arnold arriving as a free agent and several centre backs being eyed, such as Arsenal star William Saliba and Huijsen. As a result, an offer for the ageing Rudiger could prompt a tough decision for incoming manager Xabi Alonso.

Arsenal and Liverpool are vying to sign Bournemouth's 20-year-old Spain centre-back Dean Huijsen, who is also being tracked by Real Madrid. (Sky Germany)

Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen has told Liverpool that he would prefer a move to Real Madrid in the summer transfer window.