'There is interest' - Liverpool coach confirms pair wanted in January amid Leeds United transfer links

Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders has confirmed that there is interest in Calvin Ramsay and Nat Phillips ahead of the January transfer window closing.

Ramsay has endured a difficult 18 months since signing for the Reds from Aberdeen for a fee that could reach £6.5 million in the summer of 2022. He suffered injuries in his maiden campaign and made just two appearances for Jurgen Klopp's side.

As a result, Ramsay was loaned to Preston North End at the start of 2023-24 for regular minutes. However, the right-back made struggled for the Championship outfit and played twice before he was recalled to Anfield earlier this month.

Phillips also returned to Merseyside at the start of January, with Celtic not opting to extend his loan deal. The centre-back was on the periphery of things at the Scottish champions and made only eight outings.

Leeds United have been linked with a switch for Ramsay before the transfer window shuts in nine days' time. Lijnders, speaking ahead of tomorrow's Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Fulham at Craven Cottage, revealed that the defensive duo have potential suitors.

"Him and Nate are good examples," said Lijnders. "There is interest, which is good. We have to find with the agent, with himself, with the clubs the right decision for the player.

"He needs to have game-time, he needs to play and have a lot of success. That's why I liked the move of Fabio [Carvalho] for example (who joined Hull City) with Tyler [Morton]. Our head of loans Matt Newberry needs a holiday after this for sure!

"These boys all have potential otherwise they would not be with use but they need the right pathway. A good loan can do wonders."