Liverpool are set to repursue their interest in Nathaniel Clyne as they prepare an improved offer for the full-back.

The Reds tabled a £10 million bid two weeks ago, which was swiftly rejected by Southampton - who value Clyne at closer to £15 million.

The 24-year-old's contract runs out on the South Coast in a year's time but the Saints have offered the England international a new deal in an attempt to keep him at St Mary's.

Despite that, Southampton are believed to be resigned to the fact that Clyne sees his future elsewhere. As a result, they are looking to attract a sizable fee for the defender instead of letting him leave on a free 12 months down the line.

Reds identify Clyne as Johnson's right-back successor 

The Reds believe Clyne could become a key player for Brendan Rodgers' side, with right-back a position in which they need to bolster their options - after Glen Johnson, now nearing a deal with Besiktas, was released last week.

The highly-rated Southampton defender was near everpresent in Ronald Koeman's side last season, making 35 appearances and scoring two goals - including one in front of the Kop at Anfield on the opening day.

Clyne could yet stay at the Saints, after insisting he was "happy playing for Southampton" only last month whilst the club's Director of Football, Les Reed, responded positively when asked about the player's future - saying the "signs are good."

But there is a likelihood that Liverpool are willing to pay to get their man, despite the fact tensions remain between the two clubs after the Reds spent just short of £50 million on the Saints trio of Dejan Lovren, Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana last summer. 

Clyne, who made his fifth international appearance after coming on as a late substitute in a 3-2 win away at Slovenia in England's UEFA 2016 European Championship qualifying stages on Sunday, would become the Reds' fourth signing this summer.

Busy summer so far for Liverpool

Liverpool have already sealed deals for James Milner, Danny Ings and Adam Bogdan as they look to strengthen their squad - whilst Charlton Athletic youngster Joe Gomez is on their radar, amongst other targets.

The Reds are also braced for an improved offer for wantaway youngster Raheem Sterling, with Manchester City believed to be submitting an upped bid after having a £30 million offer rejected within the next 48 hours. 

Liverpool value the 20-year-old at closer to £50 million and are determined not to let him go for less than that, whilst Premier League champions Chelsea are also believed to be monitoring the situation. 

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About the author
Charlie Malam
Digital Sports Writer at the Daily Express. First-class Staffordshire University Sports Journalism graduate. Formerly VAVEL UK's Liverpool FC editor and Deputy Editor-in-Chief. Contributor since June 2014.