Liverpool "have slipped up" by reportedly missing out to Chelsea on RB Leipzig striker Timo Werner, according to Reds great Steve Nicol.

Chelsea are reported to have triggered Werner's release clause, believed to be in the region of £54million (€60m), to win the race for his signature.

Liverpool had long been considered the favourites to sign the Germany international, who has scored 31 goals this season, but they are said to have delayed an approach and their Premier League rivals have swooped.

Nicol, who won nine major honours during his time at Anfield, feels that his former club could pay the price as they are in need of competition for Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino.

"I think it is [a mistake], yes. Regardless of how good you are, you have to make sure you stay where you are at the very least," he told ESPN.

"That means you need competition for places. No question, Werner would have kept the front three - as great as they are and have been - on their toes.

"The front three of Liverpool can now breathe a little easier. I think Liverpool have slipped up here."

Werner described Jurgen Klopp as "the best coach in the world" in February and admitted his style of play would be well suited to Liverpool, but looks to be on his way to Stamford Bridge when the transfer window opens.

"I wouldn't be surprised if Werner had something to do with this," Nicol added.

"At the end of the day, if you want to go somewhere you can make it happen. It looks to me like Werner has changed his mind."