'Anything can happen' - Takefusa Kubo to Liverpool transfer talk addressed by Real Sociedad president

The Japan international is a star at the Basque club and his consistent performances have grabbed the attention of the Merseyside club who are looking to strengthen their right wing. Egyptian forward, Mohamed Salah is the undisputed starter on thee right at Anfield but there are questions about his future as the 32-year-old has been regularly linked with a move to Saudi Arabia.

Liverpool seem to be preparing themselves for life without Salah and are analysing the market for a suitable replacement. They have reportedly zeroed in on Kubo, who has been impressive for Real Sociedad and boasts a record of seven goals and four assists in 30 league appearances in the previous campaign.

However, Real Sociedad president, Aperribay, informed that the club have not received any enquiry about Kubo and insisted that they would like to hold on to their prized asset.

“There is no issue. There are no negotiations with any club," he told Mundo Deportivo.

"We’re in the market, anything can happen, but Take is very happy here and he’s going to continue. We love him very much, let’s hope he stays at La Real forever.”

Kubo has a €60m (£50m/$65m) release clause in his contract and it's been reported any potential suitor will have to pay the amount in full to lure him away from the Liga outfit. Real Sociedad have been tipped to sell Robin Le Normand and Mikel Merino this summer and hence are resigned to losing a third superstar in the same window.

It could be a busy summer in the Anfield offices as Arne Slot will look to get his preferred signings over the line before the transfer window slams shut in August. However, pre-season preparations are in full swing and after a defeat to Preston in a behind-closed-doors friendly, the Reds will be looking to bounce back against Real Betis on Saturday before facing familiar rivals Arsenal and Manchester United in the United States.