"A matter of priority": Journalist reports Liverpool are accelerating talks to offer contract to £45M star

Liverpool are reportedly accelerating contract talks with Diogo Jota to tie him down to a new deal just two years after his arrival.

The Reds surprised many by signing the forward from Wolverhampton Wanderers for a fee mooted to be worth £45M.

While his first season was muddied by injury, Jota truly came into his own last season, scoring 21 goals in all competitions.

Darwin Nunez may have joined this summer but make no mistake, Jota will be a crucial player for Jurgen Klopp this season.

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According to CBS Sports journalist Ben Jacobs, signing the Portugal international to a new deal is a priority for Liverpool.

He said: “Liverpool will also look to offer Diogo Jota improved terms as a matter of priority.

"Most of the other names currently being linked with Liverpool are just rumour or agent talk with little substance.”

While his link-up play isn't perfect and he can often be guilty of making the wrong decision, having a player like Jota, who is lethal in the box, is hugely important for a side like Liverpool.

His presence in the box also creates more space for the likes of Salah and Diaz to work with on the flanks.

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Renewing his terms is a huge sign of faith from the club as it comes just two years after his initial move to Anfield.

After losing Sadio Mane, Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi in one summer, it's encouraging to see the club signing Mohamed Salah and soon Jota to new deals.

Liverpool's owners have come in for a lot of flack in recent times but they need to be praised for how proactive they have been with their contract renewals.

Jota is currently struggling with a hamstring problem that has troubled him over the summer since picking up the issue on international duty with Portugal.