Virgil van Dijk’s injury is a massive blow for Liverpool. The Dutchman was at the wrong end of a terrible tackle in the Merseyside derby, and he is expected to miss a big chunk of this season as a result.
Liverpool are a different team without van Dijk. The former Celtic man is one of the biggest reasons why the Reds have been so successful over the last two years. Fabinho is providing temporary cover at the back, but Jurgen Klopp should look for a natural centre-half.
The January transfer window is just over two months away, and 90min claim that Liverpool’s board have told their boss that they are prepared to sanction a move for a new central defender.
The report names five center-backs Klopp has on his wish-list, and each one of them could make a massive difference.
Ozan Kabak
Schalke’s Kabak has been in the news the most over the last few days. The Turk is valued at around £30 million, but The Mirror claimed recently that Liverpool are looking to lower the fee to about £20 million plus potential add-ons.
Pau Torres
Villarreal’s Torres is also on the list according to the report. The 23-year-old has made a real name for himself over the last two years in La Liga, and he is destined for a move to a bigger side sooner rather than later.
Dayot Upamecano
Upamecano is the third player Liverpool are reportedly looking at. The Frenchman is one of the best young defenders in world football, and he has been linked with a move to a Premier League club for a couple of years now.
Mykola Matviyenko
Shakhtar Donetsk’s Matviyenko is arguably the most surprising name on Liverpool’s wish list. The 24-year-old Ukrainian won’t make the headlines like Upamecano would, but he is still a very good defender.
Matviyenko caught the eye with his performance at the Etihad last season against Manchester City. Pep Guardiola was so impressed with his display that he reportedly tried to sign him in January last year, but a move didn’t materialise. (The Athletic)
Jules Kounde
Another Guardiola target that Liverpool have on their list is Sevilla’s Jules Kounde. The young defender’s agent confirmed to ABC that Manchester City wanted him, but the player rejected the move. City signed Ruben Dias from Benfica instead a week before transfer deadline day.
Kounde played a big part in Sevilla’s Europa League win last season. The Frenchman is one of the most sought out young defenders in world football, and it won’t be a surprise to see Liverpool go all out for his signature in January.
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