Liverpool Transfer News: Everton's Ross Barkley And 2 Other Players Linked To The Reds

Now five points clear of Chelsea in first place after Easter Sunday’s narrow 3-2 victory over Norwich City, Liverpool have some breathing room heading into next week’s crucial matchup against the Blues.

What’s especially scary for the rest of the Premier League is the Reds weren’t exactly in top form against Norwich, surrendering two two-goal advantages.

Furthermore, the Premiership should be worried by Brendan Rodgers side’s intent to solidify its roster and build a juggernaut capable of dominating both England and Champions League in the near future.

News earlier this week pegged Everton midfielder Ross Barkley for a £38 million bid to Merseyside, according to Daily Star. The life-time fan and career youth Toffee has been a key cog to Goodison Park’s emergence, and manager Roberto Martinez has stated he will reject any offer for the 20-year-old responsible for five goals in 31 appearances this season.

The Toffees might also hesitate considering how close their current squad is to Champions League, and they will certainly need Barkley’s services should they qualify. But £38 million is huge sum to turn down.

A benefit of carving space at the top of the Premier League is players chasing your roster spots, rather than the other way around. In the most recent case, West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame wrote himself onto Liverpool’s transfer list, according to The Sun.

In two years the 26-year-old Senegalese has helped the Hammers escape relegation with 65 appearances and seven goals scored, but he has now set his aspirations higher.

"Liverpool? I can't tell you if I will be a Liverpool player next season. But I think my name is still on their wanted list,” Diame said. "I don't hide it, I'm ambitious and I want to join a top-six side. I am 26 years old and it's time to take that step."

Fulham offered £7.5 million for Diame and Ravel Morrison back in January, but West Ham turned the offer down, according to Express. It’s possible Liverpool could offer less than half that amount and Diame would do the rest by forcing a switch.

Lastly the Reds are reportedly seeking a competitor for top goalkeeper Simon Mignolet, as well as some insurance for Pepe Reina’s expected departure this summer.

As reported by Express, Ajaccio goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa’s contract expires this summer, and the Premier League remains a possibility. The Mexican international seeks a new challenge and it could come in the form of Serie A or the Premier League.

Mignolet has been in spectacular form this season with 100 saves in 37 starts in all competitions, while notching 10 clean sheets in the EPL. However Rodgers will need more options come Champions League.

Over three years Ochoa’s made 106 appearances for Ajaccio, and earned another 56 caps for Mexico since 2005. His market value is around £4 million and well worth the price for more assurances in goal.