Liverpool will reportedly closely monitor Declan Rice's form for England at the World Cup, with the Reds weighing up a move for the midfielder during next summer's transfer window.
The 23-year-old played the full 90 minutes of England's 6-2 victory over Iran in their World Cup opener on Monday afternoon.
The midfielder entered the tournament off the back of a strong start to the season for West Ham United, making 20 appearances for the Hammers, contributing one goal and two assists in the process.
Rice's future has been the subject of speculation over the last couple of transfer windows, with a number of clubs said to be interested in his signature.
However, West Ham's price tag, thought to be in excess of £120m, is thought to be a huge obstacle preventing him from leaving the London Stadium.
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According to Football Insider, Liverpool will be closely watching the midfielder's performances for the Three Lions in Qatar.
The report claims that the Reds want to see how Rice performs in big matches, as he does not currently play at a club competing for major trophies.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is said to be a huge admirer of the West Ham captain, who could be more attainable than Jude Bellingham in the summer of 2023.
Bellingham was on the scoresheet in England's win over Iran, and a host of Europe's biggest clubs, including Manchester United, Real Madrid and Manchester City, are expected to compete for the Borussia Dortmund teenager's signature.
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West Ham remain determined to keep hold of Rice, but the midfielder only has a contract with David Moyes's side until the summer of 2024, with the option of a further 12 months.
Rice is believed to be keen to make the switch to a Champions League club at this stage of his career, and Liverpool could move for him if they admit defeat in the race for Bellingham.
The West Ham skipper, who represented Chelsea during his youth career, has managed one goal and two assists in 15 Premier League appearances this season.
In total, he has represented the Hammers on 215 occasions, contributing 11 goals and 12 assists in the process, and he has experienced Europa League and Europa Conference League football during his time at the club.
Matt Law
