Sevilla confirmed they have received a "very good" offer from Liverpool for winger Luis Alberto, but it is still not big enough to be accepted by the Spanish club.
Liverpool are keen on bringing in the 20-year-old to Anfield, after Barcelona B decided not to make their move for the forward permanent following his loan spell last season.
The Reds have reportedly made a bid of around £6 million ($9.3 million), but Sevilla are asking for £7 million ($11 million).
Sevilla sporting director Ramon Verdejo confirmed Liverpool's bid for Alberto, but is expecting more.
"Luis Alberto is Sevilla's because Barcelona have not exercised their option to purchase," he told the Spanish club's television channel.
"Interest from Liverpool is real but nothing is signed. The player has received an important offer, but at the moment he is a Sevilla player.
"The first offer the club has is very good, but we are not satisfied yet."
Alberto scored 11 goals during his loan spell with Barcelona B and Verdejo believes it has only helped increase the player's price, despite criticism from some quarters for sending the player out on loan.
"I recall that a fuss was made when we loaned him out," he said.
"As it stands, we all agree that he now has a better value in the market and has grown as a footballer.
"Is it a good deal to sell him for the figures they speak of? The offer we have on the table is a very good one with respect to where Luis is currently.
"We don't know what will happen in the future. To date, we haven't accepted the offer."
Liverpool have already agreed a move for Kolo Toure from Manchester City on a free transfer, while a deal has been agreed in principle for Iago Aspas from Celta Vigo.
Brendan Rodgers is also reportedly closing in on Shakhtar Donetsk playmaker Henrikh Mkhitaryan, with the Reds set to create further funds following the impending £15 million ($23 million) sale of Andy Carroll to West Ham.
