Liverpool asking price for two wanted defenders after bid rejected

Liverpool will not allow Nat Phillips and Neco Williams to leave on the cheap this month - but are open to the pair departing before next Monday's transfer deadline.

Phillips has emerged as a target for several Premier League clubs after having seen his first-team opportunities limited this season due to the return to fitness of Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez and the £36million signing of Ibrahima Konate.

Liverpool rejected a loan with an obligation to buy offer from Newcastle United, which the ECHO understands was dependent on the Magpies staying in the top flight.

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The Reds have also turned down a £7m bid from Watford as it falls significantly below their £12m-£15m valuation of Phillips.

West Ham United and Burnley are believed to be monitoring the situation of the 24-year-old, while there is interest from teams in Italy and Germany.

Phillips, who was key to Liverpool finishing in the top three last season, has made just three appearances this term and hasn't featured since fracturing his cheekbone in the Champions League win at AC Milan in December.

Liverpool, meanwhile, will consider offers of a loan with an obligation to buy for right-back Williams, who is keen for regular first-team football to bolster his international prospects with Wales involved in World Cup qualifying play-offs in March.

The Reds are believed to have taken calls from a number of clubs - including some from the Premier League - regarding the 20-year-old, who has had eight outings this season but has played for just seven minutes in the league.

Liverpool, though, will only entertain