Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Liverpool recently beat Yokohama FM 3-1 in Japan(Image: 2025 Getty Images)

Arsenal midfielder Mikel Merino has expressed his belief that Liverpool would be acquiring a top-notch player if they were to sign Real Madrid's Rodrygo.

The Reds have been pursuing Alexander Isak, but Newcastle United recently turned down a £110m bid from the Reds for the Swedish striker.

The ECHO understands Arne Slot's team are not currently planning a second offer, but are keeping an eye on the situation between Isak and the Magpies, especially since the player has recently returned to the club for further talks.

The forward had spent some time training solo at his former club Real Sociedad's facilities, after he did not accompany Newcastle on their pre-season tour to Asia.

However, some reports have claimed Liverpool have turned their attention to Rodrygo, whose price tag at the Spanish giants is said to have decreased.

Given Merino's previous remarks about Rodrygo, the Arsenal man would likely view any move to Liverpool as a top signing at Anfield.

Prior to Arsenal's Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid last season, Merino was asked which player from Los Blancos he would like to play alongside.

Despite having the likes of Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham and Vinicius Junior to choose from, he opted for £78m-valued Rodrygo.

It's a profile that every midfielder would like to play with."

Article continues belowRodrygo has emerged as a target for Liverpool again(Image: 2020 Soccrates Images BV)

Arsenal have explored the opportunity to bring Rodrygo to the Emirates Stadium this summer, but they instead opted to sign Chelsea winger Noni Madueke for £52m.

Reports from AS Diario last month claimed Liverpool were interested in Rodrygo among other clubs and that Real Madrid were willing to decrease his price tag.

However, as for the move itself, it remains early days, with nothing official or formal being agreed as of yet.
For more news relating to Chelsea, visit our sister site Chelsea Latest Live.