Liverpool transfers: Reds NOT targeting Serie A star despite £40m claims

Liverpool are NOT targeting Atalanta midfielder Ederson this summer despite recent reports suggesting that a £40m bid had been made by the Reds. 

The 24-year-old enjoyed an impressive campaign in Italy last season, helping Atalanta win their first major trophy in 61 years with an excellent Europa League final display in their 3-0 win over Bayer Leverkusen.

The defensive midfielder has caught the attention of Europe's elite sides as a result, with Liverpool among those touted with interest in the Brazilian.

But reports out of Brazil went even further on Thursday, suggesting that Liverpool had actually launched a £40m bid for Ederson.

However, despite the claim of an offer, This Is Anfield's David Lynch reports that Liverpool have not submitted a bid for the midfielder, with Ederson not among their targets in the upcoming transfer window.

LIVERPOOL NOT INTERESTED IN EDERSON

According to the report, senior Liverpool sources have indicated that Ederson 'does not feature highly on their shortlist of potential signings', with suggestions of a £40m offer 'wide of the mark'.

It remains unclear whether or not Liverpool are in the market for a midfielder of any description, especially having signed four in last year's summer window.

However, there have been suggestions that Liverpool will seek to replace Wataru Endo in the coming months, signing a 'marquee' defensive midfielder instead.

The Japan international is the only orthodox senior option Liverpool have in the number six role, with Alexis Mac Allister having filled in their last season. Young Stefan Bajcetic is also a candidate for the position, but seldom featured last term due to injury.

Liverpool are expected to sign a new central defender this summer with Joel Matip having left on a free transfer, with the acquisition of a winger possible too.

The Reds may also need to recruit a new back-up goalkeeper to Alisson, with Caoimhin Kelleher strongly linked with an Anfield exit.