Liverpool have decided to accelerate talks over a new contract for 18-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha, according to Football Insider.
The club want to deter interest from Arsenal, who believe they could persuade the young player to move to London by offering assurances over his playing time.
Liverpool have no intention of allowing Ngumoha to leave and are keen to extend his current agreement.
Ngumoha recently received his first call-up to the England squad for the forthcoming UEFA Nations League matches.
The winger has made five appearances for Liverpool in all competitions this season, but has yet to register a goal or assist.