Liverpool's Joe Gomez stance as Bayern Munich boss Vincent Kompany eyes transfer raid

Liverpool is set to take a firm stance over Joe Gomez this summer. It comes amid reported transfer interest from Bayern Munich, now with Vincent Kompany at the helm.

It was a successful final campaign under Jurgen Klopp for Gomez, who notched up the most minutes in a single season since being a mainstay alongside Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the title-winning defense. But he had to be a jack of all trades, appearing across the back line and even in midfield.

This versatility has earned him an England recall in time for the Euros. It could also prove valuable to new manager Arne Slot — although with Gomez still not first choice in any position, interest from Bayern Munich will force a decision.

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Liverpool is ready to take that decision out of everyone else's hands. According to the Mirror, it considers Gomez one of its most valuable players, and is preparing to issue a 'firm hands-off warning'.

It's anticipated that he will be a hugely important player under Slot. Whether that means he's tipped to challenge for a particular starting berth remains to be seen, but if nothing else, Liverpool presumably feels it would be unable to secure similarly high-level defensive depth for the fee Kompany and Bayern would be willing to pay.

Barring a dramatic U-turn from Liverpool, then, Bayern Munich will need to look elsewhere. It is reportedly interested in Jonathan Tah of Bayer Leverkusen.

Kompany also likes Levi Colwill of Chelsea, an interest Liverpool shares. But both are set to be disappointed, with the Blues once again determined not to sell the defender.

Liverpool.com says: This is a perfectly reasonable stance from Liverpool. A massive offer could plausibly test it, but unless something incredible comes along, it makes no sense to deprive Slot of such a useful squad player.

The other variable is the stance of Gomez himself. He was likely satisfied with the minutes he got last season, but may still have designs on a starting role somewhere, especially if he has a preference for settling down at center-back in the long run.

Hopefully, however, he will be satisfied to continue playing an important role at Liverpool. It's just been made abundantly clear how much the club values him, and with any luck it is right to envisage Gomez playing a big role under Slot.