Liverpool defender Joe Gomez says he was well aware of the transfer rumours swirling around him this summer.

The England international penned a new deal last week.

He told the Liverpool Echo: "I can understand why people would have thought that I would consider moving on, for sure, 100 percent. It is obvious that, at my age and based on my previous opportunities, there was still a definite decision for me to mak.

"I guess you can see it as a crossroads. But when I talked to the club, I knew it was an important decision for me to make. Basically, the opportunity I have here and the platform and the chance to be in this club is one that is hard to leave. Basically, it was I who accepted the fact that I had to accept the challenge."

Gomez was chased by Aston Villa, where Steven Gerrard is manager. And the 25-year-old was also linked with Real Madrid.

"I cannot deny that I heard these rumours. But until it is concrete with my representatives, I take it all with a pinch of salt.

"All interests are flattering, but I do not see it as a further distraction. Until I make my decision, the external noise is just that."