Liverpool’s latest bid for Florian Wirtz rejected by Bayer Leverkusen

Liverpool continue to pursue a deal to sign Florian Wirtz after their £109million bid was rebuffed by Bayer Leverkusen.

A firm offer was made on Friday but the Bundesliga side are holding out for a fee closer to £125m and talks are continuing.

Reports in Germany have suggested Leverkusen would be interested in signing a Liverpool player – midfielder Harvey Elliott and defender Jarell Quansah have both been mentioned – to offset the difference in valuation.

However, the PA news agency understands the Premier League champions have not held any discussions about any makeweights to help the deal over the line.

Second-choice goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to complete a move to Brentford in a deal worth up to £18million.

The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international is in the final year of his contract and wants regular first-team football.