European giants begin making approaches for a pair of Liverpool stars

Liverpool have been active in their pursuit of new players, but they have had to turn defensive as big clubs begin to look longingly at the Reds squad.
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FBL-ENG-PR-BRIGHTON-LIVERPOOL | GLYN KIRK/GettyImages

Over recent days, the summer transfer window is truly beginning to gain some steam. In addition to Liverpool's efforts to secure new arrivals, they have begun fending off interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs in their own players.

While there is an expectation that the Reds will need to sell at least a few players this summer to fund their spending spree, right now does not appear to be that time.

Let's get you caught up on which powerhouse clubs are involved and who they want to sign from Liverpool.

Reds fending off Barca interest in Winger

Treble winning Barcelona are looking to build on what was already an exciting season for them. One of their main targets is securing the services of Colombian winger Luis Diaz.

The Spanish giants have been linked with Diaz for months now, so an official approach is not out of the blue at all. However, Liverpool's firm response to the transfer request might be only slightly surprising.

Luis Diaz
Liverpool FC v Arsenal FC - Premier League | Carl Recine/GettyImages

It's reported that Barcelona's offer for Diaz was soundly rejected by the powers at Anfield.

The Colombian is coming off of arguably his best season at Liverpool and Arne Slot sees him as an integral piece of the title winning puzzle.

While he has not yet entered talks to extend is contract on Merseyside, that does not appear to be a problem at this time as the player himself has come out stating his love for the club and desire to stay on.

As of now, he isn't gong anywhere.

Gakpo admired by German champions

Another Liverpool attacker coming off of his best season at the club, Cody Gakpo's performances have not gone unnoticed by the biggest cubs around.

The Dutchman scored 18 goals across all competitions to go along with an additional 7 assists as he thrived under the guidance of Slot this campaign.

Cody Gakpo
Liverpool v Tottenham Hotspur - Carabao Cup Semi Final Second Leg | Carl Recine/GettyImages

With that in mind, Kicker is reporting that German giants Bayern Munich have him on their board of Florian Wirtz attacking alternatives. The Bavarian club have been in contact with Gakpo's representatives as of this writing.

However, any possible deal would not even get to the table without reaching the base valuation of €70 million.

While Gakpo expressed gratitude for the interest being shown, he is also highly valued at Liverpool by Richard Hughes and Arne Slot. This could become a very expensive ordeal for Bayern and the Reds brass will not make it easy on top of that.