By Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

1st Sep, 2023 | 10:41am

Sources: Liverpool now want to sign Sunderland star Dan Neil in 'shock' move

Liverpool are exploring a shock deadline-day move for Sunderland midfielder Dan Neil, sources have told Football Insider.

The Reds have been monitoring Neil for the last 12 months and they see him as someone who could help fill the void left by Jordan Henderson’s departure to Saudi Arabia in the long term.

Liverpool have a strong interest in the 21-year-old despite agreeing a £34.2million deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Ryan Gravenberch in a deal expected to be completed on deadline day.

Neil is also wanted by Crystal Palace, Brentford and Burnley, and could move in the final hours of the window.

He has been one of Sunderland’s stand-out performers so far this season, playing every minute of their four Championship games.

The midfielder, who has already notched one goal and one assist this term, is regarded as one of the best talents in the Football League.

Neil started all but two of Sunderland’s games in the 2022-23 campaign, notching two goals and four assists.

He came through the ranks at the Wearside club and has made 110 appearances since making his senior breakthrough.

The 21-year-old, who has been capped for England at youth level, is under contract at the Stadium of Light until June 2026.

Sunderland are close to losing striker Ross Stewart to Southampton, while Jack Clarke and Patrick Roberts have also been linked with moves away before the 11pm deadline on Friday (1 September).

Liverpool are keen to add Neil to the imminent signing of Gravenberch after losing a number of midfield options earlier this summer.

Henderson and Fabinho have moved to Saudi Arabia, while Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner all left the club at the end of their contracts in June.

In other news, Liverpool told £25million winger bid would be accepted.