Get the latest NUFC transfer and takeover news straight to your inbox for FREE by signing up to our newsletter Subscribe Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Liverpool have held discussions with Newcastle United over a potential move for Georginio Wijnaldum - but they are yet to meet the Magpies’ asking price.

The Magpies value the 25-year-old attacking midfielder at around the £27million mark but, despite reports that Wijnaldum was close to an Anfield move, no concrete agreement is yet in place between the clubs.

Jurgen Klopp has identified Dutch international Wijnaldum as one of his top transfer targets but, despite the midfielder’s desire to depart St James’ Park, Newcastle will not allow him to leave for lower than their own valuation.

Rafa Benitez is determined to keep hold of his prize assets, with United taking a hard-line stance on both Wijnaldum and fellow wantaway midfielder Moussa Sissoko’s futures.

It is understood that Liverpool are confident of luring Wijnaldum away from St James’ Park following initial discussions - there have even been suggestions that a shirt number has already been identified for the midfielder - but Newcastle will demand their asking price is met before they sanction a deal.

Earlier this summer, Wijnaldum privately instructed his agent to find him a new club, with Everton and Tottenham Hotspur also showing an interest in the Dutchman.

Unlike Sissoko , Wijnaldum has kept his own counsel in public and returned to pre-season training without complaint, even scoring during the Magpies’ 6-0 friendly victory over Bohemians on Saturday.

Last season Wijnaldum netted 11 goals for the Magpies after signing from PSV Eindhoven for £14.5million - all of which came at St James’ Park.

During the first half of the campaign, Wijnaldum impressed but his form was patchy from January onwards.

Privately, Newcastle accept that departures are inevitable this summer following relegation - Andros Townsend has already left for Crystal Palace in a £13m deal - but they will not allow any of their players to depart on the cheap.