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Liverpool are ready to trigger Julian Brandt's contract release clause, according to Sport Bild.

The Bayern Leverkusen forward has attracted some serious attention from across Europe in recent months, but the Reds are ready to act fastest when the transfer window opens.

Brandt can be released from his contract for just £21.5million - a tiny fee considering the calibre of the player and his potential.

Liverpool will face stiff competition from the likes of Real Madrid and Juventus for Brandt, but should they win the Premier League title this season - and continue to progress in the Champions League - then they will be an attractive proposition for any young player.

(Image: FOCKE STRANGMANN/EPA-EFE/REX)

The Reds have been linked with a move for Timo Werner in recent months, but would likely only sign either the RB Leipzig forward or Brandt.

Werner's contract in Germany expires in the summer of 2020, but Leipzig would be willing to sell him this year to ensure they get a transfer fee for the player.

(Image: X90145)

Leipzig chief executive Oliver Mintzlaff recently spoke about about the prospect of losing the forward this summer.

He told Sky Sports: "It's well known that we want to extend with him, but he's signalled to us that he does not want to sign a new contract.

(Image: PA)

"We need to see what's right for us and for Timo."

Werner is believed to be available for around £35million - £13.5million more than the cost to release Brandt from his contract.