While Liverpool's forward line is amongst the best in world football, it is their midfield that acts as the team's engine room. Jurgen Klopp asks a huge amount from players in that area of the pitch, meaning slotting into the middle third is no easy task.
The addition of Thiago Alcantara was supposed to bring a different dimension to Liverpool's midfield this season, but the Spaniard's injury problems have limited his impact thus far. Still, there is no doubt he will be a big player for the club when fully fit.
The main question surrounding players in that position revolves around the future of Gini Wijnaldum. The 30-year old's contract expires at the end of the season, with the club yet to agree a new deal.
The midfielder wants to be put on par with some of the top earners at Anfield, but Liverpool seem reluctant to hand him such a pay package. As a result, negotiations have been at an impasse for some time.
It has also left Liverpool looking at potential alternatives, with one report indicating that they are close to signing a Portuguese midfielder.
Italian outlet Tutto Mercato are reporting that Liverpool have agreed a €20million fee for Lille midfielder Renato Sanches.
Sanches was once one of the hottest prospects in world football, earning a move to Bayern Munich after his performances at Euro 2016 for Portugal as an 18-year old. The move didn't really work out for him, with the midfielder spending time on loan at Swansea City during the 2017/18 campaign.
He would leave the German side in 2019, where he has rediscovered his form at Lille. Now 23-years old, he is finally fulfilling his potential.
However, Lille are currently in the midst of some financial troubles and will likely be forced to part with the player in January.
Sanches would seem an ideal fit in the Liverpool midfield. His direct running and passing style would see him slot seamlessly into the team, with a price tag of that size difficult to turn down.
He would certainly be an excellent addition. It remains to be seen if a deal will be completed.
SEE ALSO: Mohamed Salah's Ex-Teammate Claims Player Is Unhappy At Liverpool
