Liverpool star left out of squad to consider transfer with Chelsea interested

Joe Gomez was left out of Liverpool’s squad for their Premier League opener against Ipswich Town as he is exploring options to leave the club before the transfer window closes.

The Reds kicked off their new campaign at Portman Road on Saturday afternoon but Gomez did not travel with the group.

The Times report his omission is the result of ‘grown up discussions’ between the defender and Liverpool who are not actively trying to force him out of the club.

Newcastle United explored a deal to sign Gomez earlier in the summer, a proposal which also saw Anthony Gordon offered to Liverpool.

Eddie Howe’s side are still interested with Chelsea also named among the clubs who have shown interest in Gomez, along with Aston Villa, Fulham and clubs from abroad.

Gomez is considering his future on Merseyside, mulling over whether now is the right time to take on a new challenge where he will receive more regular first-team opportunities.

Arne Slot named Jarell Quansah in his starting XI alongside Virgil van Dijk to take on Ipswich with the academy product a growing influence at the back.

Ibrahima Konate is also an option at the back, named among the subs today.

Liverpool valued Gomez at £45million during their talks with Newcastle earlier in the summer.

The Magpies have since turned their attention to Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, but have so far been frustrated in their attempts to sign the Londoner with Palace rejecting four bids for his services – the latest believed to be in the region of £65million.

Should Gomez not leave the club this month, Slot will integrate him back into the squad.

Former Liverpool striker Peter Crouch expressed his surprise over Saturday’s development. ‘He is a great man to have around the squad,’ he said.

‘You look at the injuries last year, players had to come in and cover and he has given a great account of himself but maybe it is his decision to move on.’

Liverpool are still to make a major addition to their squad this summer, with Slot operating with the same group he inherited from Jurgen Klopp.

Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi was their prime summer target but the Spain international last week rejected move to Anfield.