Liverpool star watched by EPL rivals after news of summer departure

The Reds hope to cut costs as they prepare for activity in the summer transfer window.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could stay in Premier League after his upcoming Liverpool exit.

The former Arsenal star will become a free agent when his current contract at Anfield expires next summer. Brighton showed interest in signing the 29-year-old in January but eventually decided against paying a transfer fee for him.

Since then, Liverpool haven’t contacted the player over a new contract. Widespread reports in English media claim the Reds have decided against extending Oxlade-Chamberlain’s contract in June.

According to Daily Mail, Aston Villa and Newcastle have joined the transfer race for the midfielder. An unnamed Serie A club is also closely following the situation as they prepare a summer offer for him.

Oxlade-Chamberlain has struggled to get minutes under Jurgen Klopp this season, making only four Premier League starts. His departure, however, could be related to the club’s efforts to sign Jude Bellingham next summer.

Liverpool are reportedly competing against a host of clubs, including Real Madrid and Manchester United, for the English midfielder’s signature.

Dropping a few out-of-contract players off Liverpool’s wage books could help the club in their negotiations to sign Bellingham.

The Reds have struggled for midfield consistency throughout the current campaign. Jurgen Klopp’s men will hope to bounce back from back-to-back defeats when they return to Premier League action against Manchester City.