Liverpool make £26m bid for Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini?

Liverpool have reportedly made an opening offer of £26m for Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini as they seek a replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum.

The Italy international has supposedly been earmarked by Jurgen Klopp as an upgrade in the middle of the park due to his creative ability.

Pellegrini scored 11 goals and set up nine more for Roma in all competitions last season, including a goal and two assists in the Europa League semi-final loss to Manchester United.

With a year left to run on his contract, it has been suggested that Roma may be forced to sell the 24-year-old this summer.

Corriere dello Sport suggests that Liverpool are the first team to test the Giallorossi's resolve with a respectable bid.

However, the Serie A side, who are now under the management of Jose Mourinho, are expected to hold out for a bigger offer.