Liverpool will only make a move to bring Jude Bellingham to Anfield if Naby Keita seals his exit ahead of the transfer deadline, according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth.
The Reds have already smashed their transfer record in recent months, with Darwin Nunez making the £85million switch from Benfica, but another big-money arrival could be drafted in ahead of the 11pm deadline on September 1.
GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict
What's the latest news involving Bellingham?
According to the Express, Liverpool could accelerate their plans to sign Bellingham thanks to Borussia Dortmund taking an interest in Keita.
The report suggests the Bundesliga giants are unlikely to sanction a swap deal just yet, but their admiration may have boosted Klopp's chances of getting his hands on the 15-cap England international sooner than he was expecting.
It is understood that Liverpool have been joined in the chase for Bellingham's signature by Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United, but Dortmund are unwilling to sanction his departure for less than £103million.
Spanish sources have revealed that Real Madrid are also keen on securing the 19-year-old midfielder's services following Casemiro’s switch to Manchester United.
But the Merseyside outfit appear to be in the driving seat to win the race, despite facing competition, as Bellingham is reportedly expected to make the move to Anfield next summer.
What has Dharmesh Sheth said about Bellingham?
Sheth believes that Liverpool's pursuit of Bellingham and when they will act upon their interest will be determined by Keita.
The Sky Sports reporter is unsure as to whether Klopp is willing to offload the 27-year-old before the transfer window slams shut next week.
He also feels there is a possibility that Liverpool will attempt to tie Keita down to an extended contract, which would make a move for Bellingham ahead of the deadline unlikely.
Sheth, who also expressed doubts over whether Dortmund would be willing to sell Bellingham this summer, told GIVEMESPORT: "I think that would depend on what happens with Naby Keita as well - whether they'd consider selling him in this transfer window or whether they're going to try and convince him to sign a new contract."
Why is there uncertainty over Keita's future?
Florian Plettenberg has revealed that Keita is set to hold talks over his future with the Liverpool hierarchy.
The Sky Sport Germany reporter has suggested the 45-cap Guinea international is unhappy after discussions over a new contract have broken down.
Keita has entered the final 12 months of his £130,000-per-week deal, so Liverpool are running out of time to tie him down to a fresh agreement or cash-in.