Jurgen Klopp has admitted Liverpool do hold an interest in signing Kylian Mbappe this summer - but insists a deal cannot be struck due to the numbers involved in signing the striker.
The 23-year-old's Paris Saint-Germain contract expires at the end of the season and Real Madrid are the frontrunners to sign the France striker.
But even with Mbappe being available on a free transfer, the wage demands would price Liverpool out of a move. The Times have reported Mbappe would earn around £25m a year at Madrid on top of payments to his representatives.
'Of course we are interested in Kylian Mbappe - we are not blind,' Klopp said.
He was asked if Liverpool have made direct contact with Mbappe, and responded: 'Actually, I have nothing to say about that but between Kylian and Liverpool, it's all set, it's all fine.
'We of course like him and if you don't like him then you have to question yourself. But, no, we are not going to sign him, we cannot be part of these battles.
'There must be other clubs involved and that is fine. He is a great player.'
Reports in Spain on Tuesday morning claim that Real could announce the signing of Mbappe after they have played Liverpool in the Champions League final on May 28.
And speaking on Sunday night, Mbappe said news on his future is not far away.
'I can’t say about my future but you’ll know very soon… it’s almost decided,' Mbappe said at a Ligue 1 awards ceremony on Sunday night.
'This isn’t the right moment but yes, yes… my decision is almost done.
'I will officially announce my decision on the future before I join the France national team in June.'
Liverpool are currently fighting to win the Quadruple this season. Having already lifted the Carabao Cup and FA Cup, attention returns to their Premier League and a trip to Southampton on Tuesday night.
Liverpool realistically need to win at St Mary's to keep their title hopes alive. Victory would mean they then need to defeat Wolves at Anfield on Sunday and hope Steven Gerrard's Aston Villa take points off Manchester City.