Liverpool are confident of smooth negotiations for the signing of Benfica attacker Lazar Markovic.
The London Evening Standard says Liverpool are hopeful of completing a deal for Markovic after Chelsea opted not to excise their right to buy him.
Chelsea struck a deal with Benfica when the Portuguese club bought the attacking midfielder from Partizan Belgrade last year that they could have first option on a £12m transfer should he be sold.
With Liverpool starting talks over the £20m release clause in his contract, Chelsea had the opportunity to sign Markovic for a much cheaper price but they are not interested.
Liverpool are now expected to finalise the deal after giving up hope of buying Alexis Sanchez from Barcelona.
