Liverpool Transfer News: Latest Jetro Willems, Christian Benteke Rumours

PSV left-back Jetro Willems is the latest youngster linked with a move to Liverpool. Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are reportedly still interested in forward Christian Benteke, who would cost a pretty penny were he to leave Anfield during the summer transfer window.

As reported by Joe Rimmer of the Liverpool Echo, Bournemouth's shock offer for Brad Smith has left the Reds short of depth in defence, and with a move for Leicester City starlet Ben Chilwell seeming unlikely at this point, manager Jurgen Klopp has now shifted his gaze toward Willems, making a £13 million offer.

Peter Dejong/Associated Press

The 22-year-old is a well-known name among scouts and followers of Dutch football as a former prodigy who is finally starting to make good on his lofty potential. Willems has been a part of PSV's first-team squad since 2011, and he impressed so much early in his career that he even made the Netherlands' UEFA Euro 2012 squad.

His fast rise hit a bit of a roadblock in the years that followed, as the youngster failed to take the next step in his development. And just as he started finding his form again, an injury halted his strong run last season. He returned to the pitch in January and put together some strong performances to end the season.

Here's a look at some of his highlights:

The tricky speedster is a tremendous offensive weapon, venturing high up the pitch and constantly threatening with clever passes and crosses. Willems has fantastic athletic ability and great technique, and while he's not the most polished defender yet, he has time on his side.

He would be an excellent long-term project who could provide immediate competition for Alberto Moreno, and as things stand, a deal seems relatively straightforward. Per Dipesh Agarwal of Sport Witness, PSV manager Phillip Cocu has already hinted at a departure, and the player himself dropped another hint in the wake of the Georginio Wijnaldum signing:

"

I wish you all the best at your new club my friend, we'll see each other again soon! @GWijnaldum pic.twitter.com/P7nFu8HjkX

— Jetro willems (@JetroWillems_15) July 22, 2016"

The move wouldn't be without any risks, as the aforementioned injury wasn't the first of Willems' career, and he's untested outside of the Dutch Eredivisie, which isn't of the highest standard. But Willems has upside and would likely be affordable―this is a move Liverpool should not be afraid to make.

Elsewhere, the Croydon Advertiser (h/t Daily Mirror's Liam Corless) reports Crystal Palace still lead the race for Benteke, but Liverpool are asking for no less than £33 million, a remarkably high fee.

Jon Super/Associated Press

The Belgium international isn't expected to play a big role at Anfield next year and has tumbled down the pecking order after a disastrous 2015-16 season. But that apparently won't deter the Reds from asking for a king's ransom―the quoted fee is higher than what Liverpool reportedly paid to bring him to Anfield.

The 25-year-old still holds some value, as he was excellent during his time with Aston Villa and profiles as a fine striker for a smaller side. Per WhoScored.com, his ability to dominate the aerial battle is remarkable:

Klopp's fast-paced style of play doesn't suit Benteke, but any team looking for a presence inside the box and someone capable of holding up play would be wise to give the Reds a call. The reported asking price of £33 million is absurd, however―Benteke's value is lower than it has been in years.

An exit seems likely, with plenty of time left in the transfer window, but don't expect any takers to pay more than £30 million for the out-of-favour Belgian.