Exclusive - Graeme Bailey reveals Liverpool might not be finished in the transfer window

Liverpool are telling us that they are not signing any more first-team players following the recent captures of Darwin Nunez and Calvin Ramsay.

But, do we believe them? Well, yes, the club are making it known that is their stance.

However, let’s think back a few weeks before their prize capture of Uruguayan sensation Nunez – because at that point they were also in talks with another world starlet in the shape of Aurelien Tchouameni.

Liverpool were close to landing the then Monaco, now Real Madrid star.

At one point I was told that the deal for Tchouameni was “80 to 90% done” such was the progress that had been made.

However, just as Real Madrid's deal for Kylian Mbappe collapsed, they switched their attention to Tchouameni.

Liverpool were very much still in the reckoning even when Real’s interest was emerging, indeed they still believed that they would hold off Chelsea – who were the player’s other major suitors.

Monaco left the decision open to the player as they knew that all the interested parties would be paying the same fee, and the same with the player – the wages on offer in Madrid, London and Liverpool were comparable.

Tchouameni spoke at length to Reds boss Jurgen Klopp and I understand in the end it was a straight choice between Anfield and the Santiago Bernabeu. Whilst a move to the Spanish capital won out – it was a very close run thing.

It was disappointing for Liverpool and Klopp no doubt, but it does tell us a couple of things…the Reds want a midfielder and also that if a player becomes available, they will make a move.

I am told that Liverpool are looking at their midfield, but they are not seeing it as an immediate concern, and the reason for their Tchouameni bid was simple…he was just too good for them not to make a move for.

Indeed, Liverpool’s belief in Tchouameni was highlighted by their willingness to pay more for him than it cost to land Nunez.

And that is something to consider. As it stands, Liverpool do not intend on making anymore signings – but I am told that if a player becomes available, who the club and Klopp believe is that good, then yes, they will make a move.

Club sources do not deny this is the case, and this is a very healthy position to be in – always in a position to make a move if needed.