Liverpool are reportedly ready to open contract talks with defender Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The right-back has endured a mixed campaign at Anfield, receiving frequent criticism during the middle part of the season for his perceived below-par displays from a defensive perspective.
At a time when Liverpool were struggling in defence, the academy graduate was also not contributing his usual numbers when it came to goals and assists.
However, that has changed since the start of April, a remarkable one goal and six assists coming from his last eight starts in the Premier League.
That has coincided with Liverpool regaining some form in England's top flight and Jurgen Klopp's side are still in contention to finish in the top four of the standings.
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Despite Klopp retaining faith with the 24-year-old throughout his inconsistent patch, it remained a possibility that a sale could take place further down the line.
Nevertheless, according to Football Transfers, the Merseyside giants are now keen to extend Alexander-Arnold's contract past the end of 2024-25.
The report suggests that Liverpool had initially been interested in an extension until 2029, but it is now felt that terms of that length will not be signed.
Should negotiations prove to be successful, it would bring Liverpool some clarity in a position which had the potential to be troublesome going forward.
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James Milner, who has been used there on occasions, will depart on a free transfer this summer, while young understudy Calvin Ramsey has missed most of the campaign through injury.
Joe Gomez is an option in that position, yet it has been reported that Liverpool could decide to cash in on the versatile defender over the coming months.
While it is plausible that competition could be signed in the next transfer window, any arrival will likely have to start as backup to Alexander-Arnold.
The England international has chipped in with 16 goals and 71 assists from his 271 appearances for Liverpool.
Darren Plant
