Liverpool are interested in signing defender Manuel Akanji from Swiss club FC Basel, according to the Independent.
The newspaper claims that the Reds are battling Borussia Dortmund to sign the highly-rated 22-year-old ace.
It is understood that Dortmund have already held three meetings about signing the Switzerland International, but it’s the Premier League side who hold the advantage in the race.
The report details that Dortmund are trying to wrap up a deal in January, but Liverpool’s plans of a summer move are preferred by Basel as they are keen to keep the defender in the second half of the season.
Basel are preparing to face Manchester City in the last 16 of the Champions League and Akanji already helped his side beat Manchester United in the group stages of the competition.
Good move for Liverpool?
Liverpool clearly need to strengthen their options at centre back as Dejan Lovren, Joel Matip and Ragnar Klavan don’t give huge confidence.
Akanji is an upcoming talent that would be a great option for the Merseyside club and the fact he is well known for his pace is an added bonus for a defender.
The centre-back has been a key part of the Basel team this season by making 28 appearances across all competitions and his European experience is another plus.
However, the only concern for Reds fans is that they are waiting until next summer to move for him and Jurgen Klopp’s side ideally need defensive reinforcements in January.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Liverpool are believed to be leadingg the race for the talented 22-year-old and a new commanding centre-back is exactly what the fans are crying out for.
It is understood that Basel would be more open to selling next summer instead of January, but there is a risk Klopp’s team could lose out if Dortmund push hard in January.
This Is Futbol rating: 5/10