Liverpool were reportedly set to go back into the transfer market following somewhat of an injury crisis in their midfield. However, reliable sources have already shot down one of the most speculated targets, so what is next for Liverpool in the centre of the pitch?

Liverpool correspondent for the Athletic James Pearce has dismissed the speculation surrounding a potential deal for Sporting CP midfielder Matheus Nunes, but if new signings are off the table at this moment in time for the Reds, it does beg the question of how they will deploy their team with so many injured midfielders.

Thiago Alcantara joined Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Curtis Jones on the injury table at Craven Cottage last weekend when he limped off the pitch early into the second half, with The Athletic revealing in the days after that the Spaniard would be out of action for the next six weeks.

Pearce's claim on no deal being prepared for Nunes came on the same day that young midfielder Harvey Elliott signed a brand new contract at the club, with the news relayed on Thursday by Fabrizio Romano, who also shares Jurgen Klopp's feelings on the new deal.

Romano tweeted: "Official. Harvey Elliott signs new deal with Liverpool until June 2027, done and sealed today."

"Jurgen Klopp: “There is so much to like about this. For us, as a club, we get to continue our journey with a special young player who has already made a big impact”."

As a result, it could be an opportunity for Liverpool to save millions over the season ahead on a midfielder by deploying the attacking-minded youngster in the team on a much more regular basis, with The Athletic's Pearce suggesting that the youngster could become part of the midfield three on the right side alongside Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.

The talented 19-year-old who was hailed as "fearless" by the Liverpool manager, came onto the pitch to cover for Thiago when he left the field in the 51st minute of the game against Fulham and he put in an impressive and influential performance against his former employers.

Elliot completed 85% of his passes (17/20) with one of those passes key in linking the play for Mohamed Salah to slot an assist to Darwin Nunez who found the back of the net.

Last season the £21k-per-week young midfielder suffered a horrific long term ankle injury that saw the player sidelined for a large chunk of the campaign. However, he is now fit and ready to feature in the centre of the pitch alongside his teammates and has a golden opportunity to prove his worth to the Anfield faithful by effecting results positively.

With that being said, it will be interesting to see how the elite German coach handles the midfield problems without a new signing and how he balances his midfield to make up for Thiago's absence, but of course, it could be a big risk for Liverpool so Elliott must step up if they are to avoid Nunes.