Liverpool are reportedly keen on a move for Lazio defender Stefan De Vrij. (Getty Images)

Liverpool have been handed a major boost in their chase for Stefan de Vrij as the Dutch centre-back has told Lazio he will not sign a new contract, according to reports in Italy.

Corriere dello Sport claim that De Vrij has rejected Lazio’s proposal of a contract renewal and will not listen to any more offers from the Serie A club.

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The 25-year-old’s current contract expires next summer and he is prepared to leave the Lazio on a free transfer if he is not sold during this transfer window.

Lazio, however, would prefer to recoup a fee the Netherlands international rather than letting him go for nothing next year.


De Vrij has rejected Lazio’s offer of a new contract. (Getty Images)

Earlier this week, Sky Italia claimed that Liverpool had submitted a £17.2 million offer for De Vrij.



But Lazio have rejected the bid and are holding out for a fee in the region of £30m.

Liverpool have been forced to drastically alter their transfer plans after Southampton threatened to take action over their pursuit of Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool were forced to apologise to their Premier League rivals after Klopp met with Van Dijk and sent the defender messages about tactical plans for the new season.

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