Stefanos Tzimas has already dropped a big transfer hint that could offer Liverpool some encouragement as it begins the process ahead of a potential summer transfer.

Although the January window is currently open, the Reds look as though they may already be getting a headstart on a deal ahead of next season. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, talks have begun with FC Nurnberg about a summer deal for Tzimas, with the striker having caught the eye of a number of clubs.

The 19-year-old has scored eight goals and added two assists in 15 appearances while on loan in Germany from Greek side PAOK. Although Tzimas isn’t currently contracted to Nurnberg, the 2. Bundesliga club is said to be planning to activate an $18.4m (£15.1m/€18m) buy option with the intention of selling him directly in the summer.

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That’s where Liverpool comes in, with a phone call said to have taken place with Nurnberg in recent days, while the Reds are also said to have spoken to the player’s camp. Chelsea, Brighton, Aston Villa and other German sides have also been linked, with Nurnberg having already mooted a price tag of $25.5m (£21m/€25m) plus add-ons.

It does of course sound like any potential deal is still in its very early stages, so it’s a bit soon for Liverpool fans to be getting excited about Tzimas arriving at Anfield. What will give supporters some encouragement though is that that teenager has already set his sights on the Premier League.

Speaking to Bild in November, he said: "I try to do my best every day and do my part to ensure a successful season. We’ll see what happens in the summer.

"I want to play in the Premier League at some point. But there is still a lot to do until then, and at the moment I am in the right place at the club for my personal development."

Liverpool.com says: Tzimas does look like an interesting prospect. Of course, at 19, it would be something of a risk for Liverpool to part with what is a big fee for a player who still doesn’t have all that much senior experience, especially when you consider he’s currently playing in the German second division rather than the top flight.

Given the interest around him though, and the fact there are growing doubts over Darwin Nunez, it could be a bit of a coup if Liverpool does end up signing Tzimas. We’ll have to see how this one pans out.