Liverpool Transfer News: Alex Teixeira Bid Ups Chelsea Interest, Latest Rumours

Liverpool's emerging interest in Shakhtar Donetsk playmaker Alex Teixeira has reportedly sparked long-term suitors Chelsea back into action as they prepare to bid for the Brazilian.

Reports emerged on Thursday that Liverpool chief executive, Ian Ayre, had flown to Florida to try to thrash out a deal for Teixeira, with an initial offer of €32 million (£24.6 million) being rejected, per Marcus Christenson in the Guardian.

The Reds' interest has reportedly seen Chelsea rejoin the fray, and the defending Premier League champions believe they can snap Teixeira up for around £30 million, per Darren Lewis and David Maddock in the Mirror.

Per Tony Barrett of the Times, Shakhtar are looking at a figure closer to €50 million (£38 million) if they are to part with one of their star players:

Teixeira has been prolific this season, netting 22 league goals in 15 games, and he would undoubtedly be a fine addition at either Chelsea or Liverpool.

The Ukrainian outfit may benefit financially from both Premier League giants being interested, as a bidding war could force Teixeira's price up.

However, the 26-year-old was recently struck down with a hamstring injury, a factor which could put Chelsea and Liverpool off making a big move for him in the current transfer window, per Russian football writer Artur Petrosyan:

Teixeira is a high-quality player and could certainly be an asset at Liverpool, not least as a regular goalscorer.

He is also a versatile creator and can play either in the No. 10 role or on the flanks.

Per Bleacher Report's Sam Tighe, Christian Benteke's place in Jurgen Klopp's side may come under threat if the Reds sign Teixeira as the German would likely opt to play him behind Roberto Firmino as the central striker:

Though Chelsea have been long linked with Teixeira, Liverpool are reportedly the first club to make an official approach for the forward, per Christenson.

This could give the Reds the edge in the long run. Unlike previous years, Chelsea will not have the advantage of offering Teixeira Champions League football for next season, thus the two clubs are on a level playing field in that regard.

The current window offers Klopp his chance to sign new players at Liverpool, and Teixeira looks an excellent target who could fit in well with his style of play.

Reds fans must hope that the club hierarchy can thrash out a deal ahead of Chelsea.