As much as I trust your info, a players "word" isnt worth anything....only names on legally binding contracts mean anything at all.....we have seen lots of players promise stuff int he past to us and other teams, only to change their mind (even at the last minute).
My take on this is that your info is spot on BUT he will have also said the same thing to the scousers as well (hence their giddyness and certainty around it). He will be hedging his bets keeping everyone on their toes and looking at getting the bet deal for himself (as he is entitled to do).
We have obvious attractions (Pep, Elring etc) but the scousers will sell themselves well also
Of course, if the scousers miss out on the CL then it will be only us as no way he goes to a team without Champs league....missing out on the CL would be a huge nail in the coffin of their chances.