Liverpool Transfer News: Latest on Dries Mertens, Jack Butland, Top Reds Rumours

Napoli midfielder Dries Mertens is said to be frustrated at his club and has delayed renewing his contract with the Serie A team, opening the door for Liverpool. 

Calciomercato claim Partenopei manager Maurizio Sarri has upset the apple cart in Naples, with Mertens feeling he "doesn't want to be a third wheel anymore," and "wants a bigger role."

Liverpool were recently linked with a move for the Belgium international, but the player's representatives quickly denied the claims. 

Mertens' agent Soren Lerby spoke to FCInterNews (h/t Mirror's James Whaling), and he said his client will not complete a move away from Napoli this January: "I have heard these rumours but there is absolutely nothing concrete. We are not talking about these rumours. Dries is not leaving Napoli in January."

CARLO HERMANN/Getty Images

However, the news of the player's contract delay will enthuse Reds manager Jurgen Klopp, as he runs the rule over the former PSV Eindhoven operator. 

Inter Milan are also interested in Mertens' services, as are a number of Premier League clubs, per Calciomercato.

Mertens has had success as a No. 10 in the past, but Belgian football expert John Chapman suggested the player's optimal position is out wide:

Geert Vanden Wijngaert/Associated Press

The attacker can play across the midfield and will fulfil different functions within the tactics of a team.

The 28-year-old has been in fine fettle in front of goal this season, scoring six times in 14 appearances in Serie A and Europe, according to WhoScored.com.

However, Mertens has started from the bench during eight of his appearances in the Italian league. 

Here is video of the player's recent best moments in a Napoli shirt:

In other news, Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland is "attracting attention" from Liverpool and Manchester United, as the England international proves to be one of Europe's burgeoning talents.

Former Stoke goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen told Omnisport (h/t FourFourTwo) he is "unsure" if Butland is ready to leave the Potters:

"

It's hard to judge [if Butland will join a bigger club].

I talked to him a couple of years ago when he joined Stoke. He was third choice and very frustrated.

He is young and eager and wanted to play. I told him to wait your time, work hard, which he has done and he is now reaping the benefits.

It was the right thing. He went and got some experience at Championship clubs and waited his time. He has been tremendous for them this season.

"

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Butland has arguably been the best goalkeeper in the Premier League this season, and his displays have matched the likes of David De Gea and Co. 

He is in line to become England's first choice in the years ahead and possesses a credible threat to Joe Hart's status as No. 1. 

However, Klopp has described current goalkeeper Simon Mignolet as "one of the smartest keepers I’ve ever had," as quoted by the Liverpool Echo's James Pearce, and the stopper has responded by saying the new German coach has dramatically boosted his confidence. 

Mignolet's form will dictate if the Reds search for a new entity between the sticks for next season, but Klopp is sure to keep his eye on Butland and his outstanding development as it continues.