However, Liverpool's search for a creative midfield player has seen them step up their interest of late, though they may now miss out on their target as big-spending Monaco are also looking at him.
Claudio Ranieri's side have made several big-name signings in recent history, bringing the likes of Radamel Falcao and Joao Moutinho to the club this summer, and with further spending looking likely.
It remains to be seen if Valbuena would favour a move abroad for a new challenge, or if the money on offer at Monaco could sway his decision.
