Liverpool transfer news: Inacio bid being prepared amid double Barcelona blow

The Arne Slot era has begun at Liverpool - but it somewhat feels as if the summer transfer window hasn't.

Despite a number of players young and old following Jurgen Klopp out of the Anfield exit door last month, the Reds are yet to make their first signing since Slot took over. With only one pre-season friendly in the books, too - a shock 1-0 defeat to Championship side Preston North End - fans haven't had much to get excited about so far.

Fortunately for them, it appears that the wheels are turning and the Liverpool cheque book is being opened.

Here's a round-up of the latest transfer news from Anfield.

Liverpool preparing Inacio bid

Liverpool have identified Sporting Lisbon defender Goncalo Inacio as their priority transfer target to and are preparing to submit their first bid. The Reds are reportedly interested in signing a left-footed centre-back this summer and Inacio, who featured for Portugal at Euro 2024, would fit the bill.

Portuguese outlet Correio da Manha claim that despite initially not being willing to sell below €60million (£51m) Sporting have agreed to begin talks at €45m (£38m). That sum would represent a bargain for Liverpool, who've long been tipped to sign the 22-year-old talent.

Double Barcelona blow expected

Barcelona are reportedly confident of wrapping up deals to sign BOTH Nico Williams and Dani Olmo, two players who've also been linked with Liverpool. Athletic Bilbao winger Williams is closing on a move to Cataluyna, local publication Sport say, while Barca are also ready to increase their efforts to sign Olmo from RB Leipzig.

Mundo Deportivo add that Barcelona have draw up a prospective six-year contract for the Leipzig playmaker, who was at Barcelona for seven years as a youngster. Both Olmo and Williams were among Spain's best performers as they won Euro 2024.

Liverpool readying record Kubo offer

Liverpool are claimed to be readying a €65million (£54m) offer to sign Real Sociedad forward Takefusa Kubo. The Japan international, formerly of both Barcelona and Real Madrid, enjoyed another successful season with the La Liga side last term and he's only just turned 23.

Now, according Japanese outlet Sponichi, Liverpool are preparing a bid which would make him the most expensive player in the country's history. Currently tied down on a contract which runs until 2029, the versatile attacker would be difficult to obtain for a low fee.