Liverpool Transfer News: Roberto Firmino and Nathaniel Clyne Double Swoop Eyed

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is "desperate" to sign Hoffenheim's Roberto Firmino and Southampton's Nathaniel Clyne, according to Jack Wilson of the Daily Star.  

These transfers would allegedly "stun" Manchester United and boss Louis van Gaal, who have been linked with both names throughout the summer.

Wilson expects Firmino to generate around £25 million for Hoffenheim after an impressive season in the Bundesliga that saw him score seven goals and assist on 10 in 33 appearances, per WhoScored.com.

Kerstin Joensson/Associated Press

The Brazil international also netted the Selecao's winner in the vital Copa America victory over Venezuela on Sunday night, overcoming his previous open-goal miss against Colombia to prove pivotal for Dunga's men.

Firmino is an attacking midfielder who can play up front or from the flank. He would be an exciting, if completely different alternative to Raheem Sterling, should the Englishman leave during the summer. He isn't quick, but the 23-year-old is a creative force who works hard when play breaks down and already has a working relationship with Philippe Coutinho, Rodgers' main hope for the new season.

Roger Wittmann, Firmino's agent, recently said, per German outlet Bild (h/t the Press Association, via the Guardian): "All I can say is that he's moving to England." 

The improving youngster will be a quality addition to the Premier League no matter where he ends up. His quality is highlighted below:

Rodgers' capture of Charlton Athletic full-back Joe Gomez, as reported by Chris Shaw of the club's official website, hasn't dampened reports Clyne is wanted. Wilson suggests Liverpool will make an increased bid of £15 million for the player after Saints knocked back a £10 million offer.

Clyne has proven himself a top Premier League contender over the last two years and would provide a reliable option at right-back. He can also move forward if Rodgers decides to play three at the back and is the type of talent who is yet to reach his peak.

B/R UK's Graham Ruthven recently discussed what the manager needs to address during the summer:

Rodgers is filling the squad with new alternatives, having signed James Milner, Danny Ings and Adam Bogdan before the Gomez transfer was confirmed. Although Milner and Ings have the potential to be smart captures, it's likely Reds fans will be feeling a little underwhelmed by the overall quality of those coming in. This will be exacerbated if Sterling leaves.

Firmino and Clyne would slot straight into the first team at Anfield, but Rodgers needs a superstar signing to ignite the side's hopes of Champions League qualification.