Overview

• RB Leipzig opened direct talks with Liverpool after agreeing to sell Xavi Simons to Tottenham, but have not lodged a bid.
• Liverpool's price guidance stands at £40 million with a buy-back clause or £50 million without, which has discouraged suitors.
• Daily Mail's Lewis Steele reports no formal offers have arrived, with the player now viewed as likelier to stay this window.
• The club intend to resist late approaches, valuing Elliott's versatility, potential cover for Mohamed Salah during the Africa Cup of Nations, and homegrown status.
• Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs says any sale is unlikely unless a major fee is offered or a forward such as Alexander Isak arrives.