Liverpool identify Premier League midfielder as Bellingham alternative

Liverpool will be hoping to end a run of four Premier League matches without victory when they travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United on Monday. 

The Reds have failed to win in the league since a shock 7-0 victory over rivals Manchester United at the start of March.

Jurgen Klopp’s side held league leaders Arsenal to a 2-2 draw last time out, though, and will be hopeful of getting back to winning ways on Monday.

In the meantime, it appears that The Reds are considering a move for a Premier League midfielder.

As per Football Insider, the Merseyside outfit could make a shock move for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.

The report claims that Liverpool have sent scouts to watch the Portugal international in action on a number of occasions, and are now plotting a potential move for the player.

Palhinha, 27, joined The Cottagers from Sporting Lisbon last summer in a deal worth around £20 million, and has impressed during his first season in the Premier League.

Palhinha could be on his way out of Fulham just a year after joining the club

The midfielder has made 31 appearances across all competitions so far, but his performances have attracted interest from clubs including Liverpool.

The Reds are said to have strong working relationship with Palhinha’s agents, the Jorge Mendes-owned Gestifute.

They are therefore hopeful that a deal could be agreed, despite the fact that Palhinha signed a five-year deal when he joined Fulham last summer.

Liverpool will be looking to add at least two midfielders to their squad this summer, with a number of their current crop set to depart.

James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita are all set to be out of contract at the end of the current season, and the trio look increasingly likely to depart Anfield this summer.

The Reds had initially targeted Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham, but they have since decided not to pursue a move for the England international due to the huge costs that would likely be involved.