Liverpool Transfer News: Danny Drinkwater Interest Amid Latest Contract Rumours

Leicester City are reportedly preparing to offer Danny Drinkwater almost £80,000 a week in order to stave off interest from Liverpool.

According to the Daily Mail's Simon Jones, the Reds have shown "tentative interest" in the midfielder, but the Foxes are hoping to tie him down with an extended deal that will give him a significant pay rise.

Drinkwater, formerly a trainee with Manchester United, played a key role in Leicester's shock title win.

Though midfield partner N'Golo Kante seemed to earn more plaudits—and the Frenchman deserved the praise, for he was exceptional—Drinkwater's all-round excellent play in midfield was also vital.

Scott Heppell/Associated Press

According to Squawka, the 26-year-old won 74 tackles in the Premier League this season, as well as making 55 interceptions and 72 clearances. Going forward, he created 44 chances, assisted seven goals and scored two himself.

His efforts deservedly saw him called up to Roy Hodgson's provisional 26-man England squad for the 2016 UEFA European Championship, and per Sky Sports News HQ, Drinkwater has ambitions of making the final cut for the tournament:

BBC Sport's John Bennett and BT Sport's Ian Darke believe he should be granted a place in the Three Lions' squad:

Drinkwater came on as a substitute in England's 2-1 friendly win over Turkey on Sunday and immediately set about linking up with Jamie Vardy as well as he does for Leicester, per the Sunday Times' Jonathan Northcroft:

If he could achieve a similar chemistry with the likes of Daniel Sturridge or Divock Origi at Anfield, Liverpool could reap the rewards.

Leicester are understandably eager to secure his future at the King Power Stadium, though, and Jones notes the extension they're considering is for two years.

While the future looks bright at Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp, after such an incredible season at Leicester—and with UEFA Champions League football to look forward to—it would not be surprising if Drinkwater committed himself to the club.