Liverpool could still 'make an offer' for Sporting midfielder Matheus Nunes despite initial reports of a move to Anfield being unlikely, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Reds have already smashed their record outlay after heading to Portugal this summer, with Darwin Nunez making the £85million switch from Benfica, and it appears that boss Jurgen Klopp may return to Lisbon to seal another deal.

GiveMeSport Transfer Update With Dean Jones

What's the latest news involving Nunes?

According to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha, via the Express, Liverpool are preparing a £42m bid for Nunes. 

However, MailOnline have claimed that the Merseyside giants have pulled out of the race to sign the midfielder, who has a £51million release clause written into his Sporting contract.

Liverpool are not the only Premier League side to have been linked with Nunes in recent months, with West Ham United having a £25million bid rejected and Chelsea also registering an interest.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have been coveting the 23-year-old since before the transfer window reopened for business.

However, it is understood that a switch to Molineux 'doesn't appeal' to Nunes, potentially leaving the door open for Liverpool to pounce.

What has Dean Jones said about Nunes?

Jones understands that there is optimism in Portugal that Liverpool will eventually look to test Sporting's resolve by heading to the negotiating table for Nunes.

The transfer insider believes the Reds have done extensive research on the former Estoril man, while their arch-rivals are also showing an interest.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "There's definitely been some feeling around Portugal that Liverpool might make an offer.

"Liverpool have had scouting reports on this guy and Manchester United have actually been linked too, but neither of those have pushed forward at the moment."

Would Nunes be a good signing for Liverpool?

Liverpool are looking to close the gap on Manchester City, having narrowly been beaten to the Premier League title last season, and Nunes has already gained praise from the reigning champions' boss.

Pep Guardiola described the Sporting star as 'one of the best players in the world' last season, emphasising that he has plenty of talent.

Klopp has insisted that he will only sign 'the right player' after midfielder Thiago Alcantara joined a lengthy injury list thanks to suffering a serious hamstring problem in the opening day draw at Fulham, but Nunes could be a shrewd investment.

Despite still being in the early stages of his career, Nunes is already an eight-cap Portugal international and has made more than 100 appearances for his current employers.