Liverpool is currently sweating over the future of its three key players, but that doesn't mean plans have been halted for potential new signings next summer.

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah will all be out of contract next summer - and could realistically leave for nothing and sign pre-contract agreements with non-English clubs from January 1.

Fenway Sports Group bosses and Michael Edwards in particular are working to secure the futures of the trio, but it's now been reported that the club is also looking at new recruits ahead of the summer transfer window.

One man in particular who could be a target is Chelsea's young sensation Levi Colwill. The England international was wanted by Liverpool in the past, but the London club refused to consider sanctioning a sale.

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Now, however, its hands may be tied by the youngster's contract situation. Colwill was the subject of intense interest from Bayern Munich last summer, according to The Athletic, but Chelsea had no interest in selling.

It's also reported that his current contract, valued at $127,000 per-week, doesn't reflect his standing within the club, as he is considered a future first-team captain. Chelsea is reportedly braced for further interest next summer, when Liverpool could reignite its interest.

It's clear a centre-back will likely be a target for Liverpool, regardless of what happens with Van Dijk. The Dutchman is expected to sign a new contract to essentially see out the rest of his career on Merseyside, but his partner, Ibrahima Konate, arguably needs an understudy.

Jarell Quansah is highly regarded within the club, but is young and will need a top quality partner as competition. Joe Gomez has been tipped to depart the club before too long, leaving Arne Slot slightly short of options - especially if another injury crisis hits like in the doomed 2020-21 season.

Liverpool.com says: Colwill is a quality player, there’s no doubt about that, but Liverpool needs to avoid paying a big transfer fee for a sent back who may not start.

While it’s good to see Liverpool eager to improve the squad, it needs to be careful about where to spend that money, and there’s no doubt that the contract renewals should take priority.