Rovers failed to add to their squad in January, despite going in to the month with an interest in adding to their attacking options.

Tony Mowbray hinted a loan move for Premier League youngster had been close, though his side’s progress in the FA Cup had ended any hopes of that materialising.

Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones was understood to be that player, but a stunning strike in the Merseyside derby win over Everton in January, and a goal against Shrewsbury Town later that month, saw Jurgen Klopp opt to keep the youngster around.

The homegrown midfielder, who made his debut in last season’s FA Cup defeat at Wolves, has now played nine times in all for the Reds’ first-team, including Premier League outings in wins over West Ham and Bournemouth.

Rovers had hoped to explore the possibility of signing Jones on loan for the 2020/21 campaign, but a report in The Times suggests Jurgen Klopp intends to keep him as part of his plans at Anfield.

He has been among the goals for Liverpool’s Under-23s side this term, scoring nine times in 14 Premier League 2 appearances, as well as five more in four UEFA Youth League matches.

Liverpool have allowed a number of their young players to leave on loan in recent seasons, with Rhian Brewster, Harry Wilson and Ben Woodburn among those to have gained experience in temporary spells away from Anfield, but Jones doesn't look set to follow suit.

Mowbray has stated he hopes Rovers' work in developing the likes of Tosin Adarabioyo and Harrison Reed will help strengthen their links with Premier League clubs when it comes to loan players, having also made a January move for Chelsea full back Tariq Lamptey, only for him to sign a permanent deal with Brighton.

Jones signed a long-term deal with Liverpool last summer and outlining his aims, said: “Longer-term, my dreams are of being the captain of Liverpool Football Club, playing every week and winning a trophy is definitely what I’m looking to do.

“But I haven’t looked that far yet, I’m taking it step by step. My next step should be a big one and I can’t wait to see what it is.”