Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admitted the likelihood of Thomas Ince coming to Anfield before the transfer window closes Thursday is pretty low, but refused to rule out the transfer entirely.
Blackpool winger Ince was expected to complete his move to Liverpool along with Daniel Sturrudge earlier in the window, but the two clubs have failed to reach an agreement over a transfer fee, leading to other teams, including Swansea and Reading coming in with bids of their own.
It is understood Ince, son of former Liverpool player Paul, is keen on making a return to Liverpool, the club he left in the summer of 2011.
However, Blackpool have refused to climb down from their demands and with Liverpool refusing to match the asking price, the deal has very much broken down.
Rodgers said the move was now unlikely, although he said anything was still possible, with surprises at the end of any transfer window always the order of the day.
"I think it will be difficult now," Rodgers said. "We could still do the deal but it looks like one that is a bit too complicated at this stage.
"It's about affordability as well. If Tom stays at Blackpool it doesn't mean he won't join Liverpool at a later stage."
Ince has been in terrific form for Blackpool this season, scoring 15 goals in 29 league games in the Championship.
Liverpool have also been linked with moves for Keisuke Honda and Mauro Zarate of CSKA Moscow and Lazio respectively, and while Honda might prove to be the better signing, Zarate will come at a much more cheaper price.
The Reds looked good going forward on the counter-attack against Arsenal, and with the arrival of Philippe Coutinho, the attacking lineup has been further enhanced.
However, adding further quality in the ilk of a Honda can never be a bad thing.
