There has been a fresh twist in Liverpool’s pursuit of Florian Wirtz, with Bayer Leverkusen reportedly holding firm on its asking price for the player, or keen on landing two Reds as part of the deal.

Liverpool lodged a second, improved bid on Friday for the German international, which reportedly was for a fee of up to €130 million ($148M/£110M).

Reports had indicated that was slightly short of Leverkusen’s valuation, but the German side would consider accepting given it was not selling to a direct rival.

However, claims emerged on Sunday that Leverkusen is keen on landing Harvey Elliott or Jarell Quansah as part of the deal.

Bayer Leverkusen interested in TWO Liverpool stars as Erik ten Hag's side consider asking for a player in talks over £110m Florian Wirtz deal	Bayer Leverkusen interested in TWO Liverpool stars as Erik ten Hag's side consider asking for a player in talks over £109m Florian Wirtz deal	Jayden Danns set for Liverpool talks over Premier League loan move

With a gap still present in the offer and asking price, Kicker adds Liverpool could return with a third offer, or include a current player as part of the deal.

The report states Elliott “fits Leverkusen's profile and is a consideration,” and adds he could leave Liverpool as Wirtz’s arrival would further reduce his playing time next season.

Meanwhile, the Northern Echo reports that Sunderland will “hold talks” with the Reds over a possible summer return to the Stadium of Light for Jayden Danns

Jayden Danns could return to Sunderland next season

The Liverpool forward joined Sunderland on loan in January but didn’t play a single minute for the club due to a back injury that was detected during his medical.

Danns has spent the last few months recuperating at Liverpool’s Kirkby training base, and it’s not clear how his recovery has progressed.

But he clearly made an impression on Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris, who held “one-to-one chats” with Danns, according to the Northern Echo

The outlet reports Danns will play some part in Liverpool’s pre-season tour, with Arne Slot keen to see the 19-year-old in action.

There is a “good chance Danns could be deemed surplus to requirements”, in which case another loan may be arranged