Liverpool transfer news among Pedro Neto boost and $32m Arsenal battle for 'next Rodri'

Liverpool transfer news among Pedro Neto boost and $32m Arsenal battle for 'next Rodri'

Liverpool remains on the lookout for a new manager and sporting director over what is set to be a critical summer for the club. Jürgen Klopp's announcement that he will leave Anfield at the end of the season coincided with Jörg Schmadtke departing after his deal ended.

A number of names have been tipped to replace Klopp at the helm, with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso emerging as the leading candidate. His side extended its lead at the top of the Bundesliga to five points on Saturday by thrashing Bayern Munich.

Alonso's stock is continuing to rise and Foot Mercato reported last week that Liverpool had made a move for its former Spanish midfielder, to return to Anfield as manager.

It remains to be seen when Liverpool will appoint a new sporting director. The eventual candidate will likely have a key role to play in any summer transfer business, regarding both incomings and outgoings.

Here is the Liverpool.com verdict on the transfer gossip to emerge around the Reds today. It includes a boost over a Premier League winger and interest in a talented teenager.

Liverpool has been handed a boost in its reported pursuit of Wolves winger Pedro Neto. The Portuguese international is enjoying another decent season in the Premier League after returning from an injury lay-off.

He has been on Arsenal's radar for some time and Football Insider reports that Liverpool is also a big fan of Neto and could make a move this summer. Wolves boss Gary O'Neil is reluctant to lose Neto but is braced for interest at the end of the season, with the 23-year-old valued at around $76m (£60m/€70m).

It is reported that Wolves may be forced to sell one of its key players in order to strengthen other areas of the squad, with the Premier League's Profitability and Sustainability Rules once again in the spotlight.