Blackpool manager Michael Appleton has told Liverpool that they must increase their offer if they want to sign Thomas Ince.

The Reds are reportedly negotiating a deal to bring the England U-21 international back to the club, after letting him leave for £250,000 just 18 months ago.

His impressive form this term, in which he has netted 13 Championship goals for the Seasiders, has alerted Brendan Rodgers, who is keen to strengthen his attacking options.

It’s thought that the Merseysiders are willing to offer £4m for the winger, but this figure falls short of the club’s valuation, according to Appleton:

"As far as I'm aware I think there's been a conversation between Karl (Oyston) and Liverpool regarding an offer but, as far as I'm aware, it's way below the type of money we'd expect for someone of Tom's talent," he told Sporting Life.

"Obviously the chairman keeps me informed but I think it was just an initial conversation between himself and Liverpool and there was a figure used but obviously it's way below, like I say."

Appleton went on to claim that Ince, son of former Liverpool and Manchester United midfielder Paul, will be used despite the uncertainty, and that there are no guarantees he’ll leave:

"He'll continue to play as long as we hold his registration,

"I wouldn't say I'm resigned to losing him just yet though. There's still a lot of work that we feel has to be done before anything like that happens."