Liverpool transfer news: Stoke star Jack Butland likely to sign after huge development

Liverpool have been heavily linked with Stoke star Butland as Jurgen Klopp eyes a new goalkeeper for next season.

The Reds appear to have settled on Loris Karius as their No 1 but it remains to be seen if the German is the right man going forward.

Arsenal have appeared likeliest to sign Butland with Arsene Wenger set to move Petr Cech on at the end of the campaign.

But Ladbrokes have now made Liverpool the favourites to sign the England international.

Alex Apati of Ladbrokes said: "Stoke are all but down as far as the odds are concerned and it's likely a whole host of Premier League heavyweights will do battle for Butland's signature in the summer - but it's Liverpool who lead the way right now."

Liverpool are clear favourites with Ladbrokes to sign Butland at 5/4, particularly with Stoke slipping towards relegation.

Arsenal and Chelsea are then priced at 3/1 and 4/1 respectively, with Tottenham and Manchester United outsiders at 6/1 and 8/1.

Butland could start as England’s No 1 shotstopper at the World Cup in Russia.

And, speaking last month, the 25-year-old admitted he was determined to get the nod over the likes of Joe Hart, Nick Pope and Jordan Pickford.

“It's a good thing isn't it, having competition?” Butland said.

“I enjoy it. You see the way we're all competing against each other.

“It's a good environment to work and train in and we're all pushing each other.

“It's probably a four or five horse race still. There's a chance for people to show what they're all about in all positions and none more so than the goalkeepers. It's a positive situation to be in.”