Liverpool transfer news: 'Next Arjen Robben' linked, Thiago latest, Traore blow

The buildup to the summer transfer window has now begun, with rumours and speculation continuing to swirl as Liverpool eye possible reinforcements.

Jurgen Klopp's league leaders have not been particularly busy during recent windows, but that has not stopped the rumour mill from linking them with additions.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up the latest news on possible comings and goings from Anfield.

Sunday morning's headlines:

Chelsea, Liverpool 'tracking Hoffenheim youngster'

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Chelsea and Liverpool have reportedly identified Hoffenheim youngster Nick Breitenbucher as a possible transfer target.

While both clubs are looking to strengthen their senior squads ahead of next season, focus is also being placed on signing players for the future.

According to Spox, the two Premier League giants have been left impressed by the potential of Breitenbucher.

The 17-year-old, dubbed as 'the next Arjen Robben', has contributed 13 goals and three assists from 16 appearances at youth level this season.

The report claims, however, that Schalke 04 are currently regarded as the favourites to sign the Germany Under-16 international, days after revealing a change of club strategy.

Breitenbucher has two years remaining on his contract at Hoffenheim.

Bayern Munich chief confirms Thiago wants to leave amid Liverpool links

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Bayern Munich CEO Karl-Heinz Rummenigge has admitted that midfielder Thiago is seeking a move away from the Bavarian giants ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Spaniard's contract with the Bundesliga champions is set to expire next summer, and Liverpool have been strongly linked with an approach for the midfielder.

Despite struggling with injuries in the latter half of the season, Thiago has been a key player for Hansi Flick's side this term with 35 appearances across all competitions, but Rummenigge has confirmed that the Spaniard is likely to be sold before he is able to walk away for nothing next summer.

Speaking to German outlet Bild, Rummenigge said: "He's a great guy on and off the pitch. We negotiated with him and met all of his wishes.

"But Thiago Alcantara wants to leave. It looks like he may want to do something new at the end of his career. We don't want to lose a player for free next year. I say that very clearly.

"We haven't had any contact with Liverpool."

The 29-year-old has turned out 230 times in all competitions for Bayern since arriving from Barcelona in 2013, and Thiago recently won his seventh Bundesliga title with the German giants.

Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick hoping to keep Liverpool target Thiago Alcantara

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Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick has admitted that he is keen to keep Thiago Alcantara at the Allianz Arena.

With less than a year remaining on his contract, Thiago has been strongly linked with a summer switch to Premier League champions Liverpool.

However, Flick has suggested that he hopes to show the Spaniard that he remains an important player by handing him a start in tomorrow's German Cup final.

Speaking at a press conference, Flick said: "I hope that he won't leave. The surgery was not so long ago. But everything went as planned. He can play from the start tomorrow. He is 100% fit."

The playmaker has made 29 starts and six substitute outings in all competitions this season, contributing three goals and two assists.

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