Competition for places at Liverpool is pretty strong right now.

Just a glance at Jurgen Klopp’s bench so far this campaign proves that.

During their 2-1 victory against Spurs on Saturday, Liverpool’s bench was Simon Mignolet, Joel Matip, Alberto Moreno, Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Xherdan Shaqiri and Daniel Sturridge.

And that’s with Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain ruled out through injury.

Strong.

It’s especially strong in central midfield with captain Henderson only starting one match this season due to James Milner, Georginio Wijnaldum and Naby Keita impressing.

Despite that, Liverpool are linked to another midfield signing - Nicolo Barella.

The 21-year-old is a regular for Serie A side Cagliari and is being linked with a host of top European clubs, including Liverpool.

Barella played 35 times for the Italian club last season and is very highly-rated in his native country.

But Liverpool may have an advantage over the likes of AC Milan and Tottenham in the race for his signature thanks to LeBron James.

According to Goal, “Liverpool could use their links to LeBron James and put themselves in pole position to land Barella”.

In 2011, the basketball star invested $6.5 million in Liverpool for a 2 percent stake in the club, which has grown incredibly in value to around $32 million

And Barella is open to a move to the Premier League and has even highlighted his desire to meet his idol, James.

“Cagliari received offers and turned them down. I am happy to have remained with the club I support,” Barella told Gazzetta dello Sport.

“If I had to choose between Serie A and the Premier League, I’d go for England, because I like the way they approach the game. Plus everyone there is just as irritable and prone to fouls as me!

“My dream is to get a nice house with a garden and a pool. And to meet LeBron James.”

James is now playing for the LA Lakers but has been a Liverpool fan for many years.

He was even in attendance as Liverpool made it five wins out of five against Spurs at Wembley on Saturday.

And with James a regular visitor to Anfield, Barella will surely be tempted at the opportunity of playing for Liverpool.

Klopp could even ask James to have a quiet word with Barella if he wants to persuade him to join the club…