Former Liverpool defender Steve Nicol believes the Reds have slipped up by missing out on the signing of Timo Werner.
The German striker has long been linked with a move away from RB Leipzig this summer, and Anfield appeared to be his most likely destination.
But Chelsea now look to have stolen a march on their Premier League rivals, with the news breaking on Thursday evening that Werner looks set to make the move to Stamford Bridge.
Reports have suggested the striker’s release clause is about £54million, with the Blues entering talks to firm up a deal with the 24-year-old.
When questioned about Liverpool’s decision not to pursue a move for Werner, ESPN pundit Nicol was in no doubt.
"I think it is (a mistake), yes,” Nicol said. "Regardless of how good you are, you have to make sure you stay where you are at the very least.
"That means you need competition for places.
"No question, Werner would have given the front three – as great as they are and have been – it would have kept them on their toes.
"I think Liverpool have slipped up here. Saying that, I wouldn’t be surprised if Werner had something to do with this.
"At the end of the day, if you want to go somewhere you can make it happen.
"It looks to me like Werner has changed his mind."
