Liverpool in clear to sign Dutch ace: Reds ready to make move and conduct medical - report

LIVERPOOL have been handed a boost in the hunt for Newcastle midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.

By Alex Harris       

PLANS: Liverpool are ready to launch their move for Georginio Wijnaldum

The Daily Mirror claim transfer rivals Tottenham have dropped out of the chase to sign the Holland international.

Mauricio Pochettino is a big fan of Wijnaldum but agrees with Spurs bosses that Newcastle's £25m asking price is too high.

Wijnaldum fancies a move to Anfield following the Magpies' relegation from the Premier League.

Liverpool are now reportedly ready to launch their move and put him through a medical.

The Reds could offer Newcastle fringe men such as Jon Flanagan to drive down the Magpies' asking price.

Wijnaldum scored 11 goals in 38 appearances for the Magpies last season but his goals could not prevent them sinking into the Championship.

 

The 25-year-old scored in Saturday's 6-0 pre-season win over Bohemians but the Shields Gazette report that he flew back to Holland with the club's permission.

Rafa Benitez wants to keep the midfielder - and Moussa Sissoko - but acknowledges that a deal could be struck.

He said: “We maybe have to sell some players if we have the right offers, but that’s always normal.”