Liverpool star 'exploring transfer options' after first day absence

Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is considering his options after failing to travel to Ipswich for the first game of the new Premier League season, a new report has revealed.

The 27-year-old is Liverpool's longest serving player and is capable of playing at right-back and left-back in addition to his natural position of centre-back.

The Times report that 'grown up discussions' have taken place between Liverpool and Gomez over his future, knowing he's not guaranteed regular minutes under Arne Slot.

The new Liverpool manager selected Jarell Quansah and Virgil van Dijk to face Ipswich at Portman Road, with the former replaced by Ibrahima Konate at half-time. Gomez did not travel for the 2-0 victory as he considers his future.

Newcastle United, Aston Villa, Fulham and Chelsea are named as clubs to have shown interest in Gomez, although a move to join Eddie Howe at St James' Park appears unlikely as a move was linked to Liverpool's interest in Anthony Gordon.

Tune in to 90min's YouTube channel as Jacob Culshaw hosts Scott Saunders, Harry Symeou and Grizz Khan to discuss Liverpool's transfer window activity and failed pursuit of Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

There is also interest in Gomez from abroad, with Bayern Munich tipped as a potential destination after deciding to sell Matthijs de Ligt to Manchester United.

Gomez made 32 Premier League appearances for Liverpool last season and 51 in all competitions – the most he'd ever made under Slot's predecessor Jurgen Klopp. But he wasn't always starting games in that time, often coming off the bench to help plug a gap in defence or helping the club see out a result.

In total, Gomez has appeared 224 times for Liverpool, remarkably failing to score a single goal in that time. He has also been capped by England 15 times, with his improved performances last season rewarded with a place in Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 squad.

The report adds that if Gomez fails to find a new landing spot before the transfer deadline on August 30, Slot will reintegrate him into Liverpool's squad – an indication of the strong relationship the player continues to enjoy with the club.

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