Piotr Zielinski to Liverpool: Talks set to be held with Udinese over deal for Poland international

The 21-year-old box-to-box midfielder is likely to replace Joe Allen, who is expected to leave Anfield in the summer

Udinese midfielder Piotr Zielinski, in action for loan club Empoli (Getty Images)

Liverpool are set to hold talks with Udinese over the potential signing of midfielder Piotr Zielinski, according to reports.

The Poland international’s progression has been monitored by the club’s scouts during his loan spell at Empoli, most recently watching him in the Serie A side’s 1-0 victory over Genoa a week ago.

Zielinski’s energetic displays from central midfield have caught Jurgen Klopp’s eye and, according to the Daily Mail, the Reds are now ready to open negotiations.

Initial reports of Liverpool’s interest, which surfaced during the January transfer window, suggested that Zielinski would be available for around £11million.

The 21-year-old box-to-box player is most likely to be a replacement for Joe Allen, who is expected to depart from Anfield this summer.

The Wales international, whose current deal expires in 2017, saw fresh contract talks stall following the dismissal of former manager Brendan Rodgers and has only featured in the first team intermittently since Klopp's arrival.

The Merseyside club have already completed the signing of another midfielder, combative 19-year-old Marko Grujic from Red Star Belgrade, who will join the first-team squad next season.

Schalke 04 centre-back Joel Matip, who can deputise in defensive midfield, will also join next season on a free transfer.