Reports: Manchester United and Chelsea increasingly confident of signing Liverpool midfielder

What's the story?

Liverpool have made a good start to the season and after successfully holding on to Coutinho, there is an air of optimism and expectation around Merseyside. However, according to reports in Italian daily Tuttosport, Premier League giants Manchester United and Chelsea are both circling for Liverpool's German star, Emre Can.

The 23-year-old German's contract is running out next season and although Liverpool remain confident of tying down Can to a new deal, sources close to the player believe that the Reds might lose out on the talented midfielder for free next season.

The versatile player has the option to speak to foreign clubs from January. Juventus and even Bayern Munich have been credited with an interest although if Can wants to remain in the Premier League, Chelsea and United are more than happy to step in.

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Will Emre Can sign a new contract with Liverpool?

After initially struggling at Liverpool, Can has quickly grown to become an integral member of Jurgen Klopp's impressive side. Capable of going past players, scoring spectacular goals and putting tackles in, the German's contract impasse will be bothering the Liverpool board.

If at all Can has to make a move, Liverpool will be hoping that it is to another league as they will not want the 23-year-old to strengthen their direct rivals.

The heart of the matter

It is believed that Can fears that he will be put in a similar situation to Coutinho if he signs a new contract. The German star's camp want a release clause included, while Liverpool are adamant about extending his contract on their own terms.

Having been heavily linked with Juventus, Antonio Conte has now taken a keen interest as he looks to bolster the midfield department of the Premier League Champions. Jose Mourinho is also reportedly a huge admirer of the midfielder's talents and is keeping a close eye on the situation.

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Author's take

Emre Can's contract situation is really getting worrying for Liverpool and the Merseyside giants will be hoping to resolve the situation as soon as possible. It is impossible to envisage Jurgen Klopp selling him to a direct rival and if Can wants to stay in the Premier League, a free transfer to Chelsea looks the best option as Liverpool fans will never forgive him, if he joins Manchester United.