Liverpool allegedly had to fend off late interest from Barcelona to complete the transfer of Thiago Alcantara.

After a prolonged period of speculation, the Merseyside giants eventually announced the signing of the Bayern Munich midfielder early last month.

However, according to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, finalising the deal was far from a formality for the Premier League champions.

Romano claims that Barcelona - Thiago's former club - made an effort to secure a reunion with the 29-year-old before the beginning of the new season.

The Spain international allegedly shunned Barcelona's efforts having already held constructive discussions with Jurgen Klopp.

A positive coronavirus test has restricted Thiago to just 45 minutes in a Liverpool shirt.