Liverpool are in pole position to land Croatian whizkid Ante Coric ­after the collapse of his £15million move to Manchester City,

Jurgen Klopp has been on the teenager’s trail all summer, along with Tottenham and Merseyside neighbours Everton, but all three clubs were pushed out of the picture when City’s bid was accepted by Dinamo Zagreb.

But the 19-year-old attacking wide midfielder – rated one of Europe’s hottest talents – believed he was being “stock-piled” by City and his chances of immediate Premier League action at the Etihad were slim.

Those fears came true when Coric discovered the Blues planned to send him out on a season-long loan once the move had been completed – and he pulled out of the deal.

That has infuriated Dinamo, who were keen to bank City’s money.

Liverpool – and Spurs, who they drew 1-1 with at White Hart Lane on Saturday –are now set to revive their interest.

Klopp remains keen to strengthen his squad with Coric and while Spurs tried and failed last week to persuade Crystal Palace to sell them tricky winger Wilfried Zaha, the teenager is a more than viable option as Mauricio Pochettino looks to pep up his attack with Champions League football looming next month.

Both clubs value Coric closer to £12m and were prepared to build add-ons into any deal.

But as Dinamo accepted City’s £15m offer, that is the fee the Croatians are now insisting on.

Source: Daily Mirror

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