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Serie A heavyweight AC Milan are reportedly still keen on signing Liverpool's defender Joe Gomez, as per recent reports from Italy.
The 28 year old was rumoured to be heading to San Siro during the summer transfer window's final day, but the move allegedly collapsed due to Liverpool's failure to secure a replacement. Liverpool had been strongly linked with Crystal Palace's captain Marc Guehi, and a $45.9 million deal seemed imminent before the London-based club withdrew at the last minute.
Guehi is now anticipated to fulfil his contract at Selhurst Park and become a free agent next summer, although Liverpool will undoubtedly face stiff competition from Europe's top clubs for his services.
Clubs such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Barcelona have been associated with the England defender ahead of his expected free agency.
Liverpool did bolster its defensive options by bringing in young centre-back Giovanni Leoni from Parma.
However, after the 18 year old sustained an ACL injury on his debut for the Reds against Southampton in the Carabao Cup in September, retaining Gomez has turned out to be a wise decision, with Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk being the only other fit senior central defenders at the club.
That said, if the latest reports from Italy hold any truth, Liverpool's determination to keep Gomez could be put to the test again in January.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Milan is determined not to delay this time and plan to act quickly when the transfer window opens again.
The report suggests that talks with Gomez had been progressing positively and that the deal's collapse was not due to the player's reluctance to move.
Sporting director Igli Tare is said to remain keenly interested in the Reds' longest-serving player, with an "attack" planned, as the outlet puts it.
Gomez has featured in only seven matches across all competitions this season, accumulating 238 minutes of playing time.
His limited first-team involvement was a significant factor behind the summer transfer rumours, so it remains to be seen whether continued restricted opportunities under Arne Slot might once again lead the defender to contemplate a departure.
Since joining Liverpool in 2015, Gomez has racked up just under 250 appearances across all competitions.
He is tied to Anfield until 2027, and it is presently unknown how much Milan would be prepared to offer for his signature.
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