Liverpool legend John Barnes has suggested that the Reds did not move for RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner due to the current crop of attacking players at Jurgen Klopp's disposal.

The Premier League champions-elect were said to be leading the race for the striker before the coronavirus pandemic led to clubs reassessing their transfer strategies ahead of a financially-restricted window.

Werner's £53m release clause was eventually activated by Chelsea and the German will now line up for the Blues next season, and Barnes believes that bringing in another star attacker could have led to disharmony among the Liverpool squad.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Barnes said: "Well once again you're talking about the harmony within the team. You're talking about a world-class player who demands to play every week and if he's not going to play every week, is that going to upset the spirit in the camp?

"I don't know if Timo Werner was given assurances or he feels he can play for Chelsea every week rather than coming here, but you've got to be careful and I know Jurgen doesn't like to have a big squad and lots of superstars in the team.

"Keeping them happy can be quite problematic and we've seen every now and again, like the Barcelona game when they didn't have Roberto Firmino or Mohamed Salah, and Divock Origi can come in and did the job."

Klopp's side marked their return to action with a goalless draw against Merseyside rivals Everton at Goodison Park, leaving the Reds 23 points clear at the top of the Premier League table.