Kevin De Bruyne to Liverpool transfer claim becomes clearer as midfielder's stance emerges

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Liverpool are expected to be active in the summer transfer market, with Arne Slot set to oversee another window in charge following a quiet January. Departures are also anticipated this summer, with Trent Alexander-Arnold set to leave as a free agent when his contract expires. Real Madrid are currently viewed as the most likely destination for the England international.

In terms of incomings, a new No.9 and left-back are expected to be the priorities, while centre-back and right-back options are likely to be assessed. In recent days, the Reds have also been linked with a shock move for Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne.

As Liverpool set their sights on summer reinforcements, the ECHO rounds up the latest headlines from Anfield and beyond.

Liverpool's Kevin De Bruyne 'stance'

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has been linked with a shock move to Liverpool. De Bruyne, 33, is set to leave City this summer after the club decided against extending his contract.

But the ECHO understands the Reds are presently not considering a move for the Belgium international. The Athletic has also dismissed speculation linking De Bruyne with a move to Liverpool, calling the reports "wide of the mark."

David Ornstein of The Athletic has suggested that the rumours may have originated from De Bruyne's close friendships with several Liverpool players, including Virgil van Dijk.

Carlos Baleba's transfer stance becomes clear

The Brighton midfielder has been the subject of a transfer rumours in recent months, following a string of impressive performances under new manager Fabian Hurzeler.

Football Insider has recently claimed Liverpool are among the clubs interested in the 21-year-old, who joined from Lille for £23million in August 2023 and has featured in 37 matches across all competitions this season.

However, Ornstein has added that the Seagulls 'have no desire or need to sell him.'

With that said, no club is reported to be 'prepared' to go to lengths at present with there is also no indication the Cameroonian is 'agitating' for a move.

"So it would take a king's ransom for Brighton to even consider parting with Baleba and I'm not aware of anyone preparing to go to such lengths at present," Ornstein adds.

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