Chelsea is interested in a Liverpool player valued at £45 million following his absence from the opening match…

Chelsea is pursuing a £45 million Liverpool player who is still considering his options following his absence from the opening match.

A Liverpool star, valued at £45 million and on Chelsea’s radar, is still assessing his alternatives after not featuring in the opening match.

Chelsea is reportedly interested in Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, who was notably absent from Arne Slot’s squad for the match against Ipswich on Saturday.

Liverpool secured a 2-0 victory at Portman Road, while Gomez remained at home as Jarell Quansah partnered with Virgil van Dijk in the first half, followed by Ibrahima Konate taking over in the second half.

There were discussions about a potential £45m transfer to Newcastle during Euro 2024, which would have involved Anthony Gordon moving to Liverpool, but the talks fell through in the final stages.

Newcastle may still pursue Gomez, but they have recently focused on acquiring Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, and if that deal materializes, they are unlikely to make another offer for Gomez.

According to The Times, the 27-year-old is still “exploring his options” as the transfer window approaches its deadline, with Chelsea, Fulham, and Aston Villa among the clubs showing interest, alongside several international teams.

There is no certainty that Gomez, Liverpool’s longest-serving player since his signing in 2015, will depart Anfield before the month’s end.

His absence from the squad stems from what have been characterized as mature discussions between him and the club, which is not actively pushing the 27-year-old to leave.

In recent years, Gomez has been categorized as a versatile player capable of playing as a center-back, right-back, left-back, and even in a defensive midfield position.

His selection for the England squad during the European Championship this summer was partly due to this adaptability.

Although he considers center-back to be his optimal position, his readiness to take on various roles enhances his value to Liverpool.

Gomez has primarily played as a left-back for Liverpool, showcasing his skills during the periods when both Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas were unavailable.

The potential signing of Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves may further reduce the Englishman’s playing opportunities under Slot.

Liverpool journalist David Lynch reports that the club has a strong interest in the full-back, with Wolves reportedly valuing him at £50 million.