Liverpool Transfer News: Latest on Dries Mertens and Keita Balde Diao Rumours

Liverpool could be set to miss out on another winger, as target Dries Mertens has been revealed to be the subject of interest from Inter Milan.

According to Football Italia, via David Wright of the Express, Merten's agent Soren Lerby told FCInterNews: "Inter? I can say that we're not just talking about rumours and unfounded suggestions. The Nerazzurri represent a real possibility."

The Reds have already missed out on one possible replacement for Raheem Sterling after Aston Villa confirmed the signing of Barcelona youngster Adama Traore, per BBC Sport, and it seems if they don't act quickly, they could lose out again.

Mertens scored 10 goals in all competitions last season and created a further 12.

Serie A expert Paolo Bandini reveals some of the Belgian's qualities, while WhoScored.com's Cristiano Acconci is impressed with the 28-year-old's myriad strengths:

Indeed, as WhoScored.com illustrates, Mertens is constantly involved as a creative force for Napoli:

The winger has all the attributes needed to thrive in the Premier League, and alongside the likes of Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino, he could help form an outstanding attacking midfield trio.

Liverpool have bought well so far this summer, and if they can wrestle Mertens from Inter's grasp, they will have added a player of real quality and incisiveness to their side.

Liverpool Close in on Lazio's Keita Balde Diao

According to Tom Olver of Metro, "Liverpool are lining up the transfer of Keita Balde Diao, as he is set for showdown talks with Lazio next week."

Largely used as a substitute, the 20-year-old winger scored four goals and laid on four assists in 1,184 minutes of play in all competitions last season.

As Squawka report, Keita is an exceptional dribbler, successfully taking on opponents 76 per cent of the time in Serie A last year.

Here are some of the youngster's highlights:

Though not yet as effective as Mertens, Keita would be a positive long-term acquisition and provide valuable competition for Jordon Ibe. 

If the Reds can't land a more experienced campaigner, Keita's technical prowess and outstanding potential would make him a strong signing if acquired at the right price.