Liverpool are now battling Real Madrid for the signature of FC Bayern defender Dayot Upamecano, amid a new update on his future at the Allianz Arena.
The Reds finally managed to get one over on Madrid on Tuesday night, defeating the Spanish side 1-0 at Anfield in the Champions League, courtesy of Alexis Mac Allister's second-half header, which was the Argentinian's first goal of the season.
The result was extra sweet, given that it was the first time Trent Alexander-Arnold has returned to Anfield since controversially leaving in the summer, with Arne Slot bringing in Jeremie Frimpong as a replacement.
However, it would be fair to say Frimpong hasn't made an immediate impact, having only been used sparingly by Slot even prior to his recent injury, which has ruled the right-back out of the last four matches in all competitions.
Jeremie Frimpong
The manager was also keen to bring in a new centre-back in the summer, narrowly missing out on Marc Guehi on deadline day, given that Crystal Palace were unable to sign a replacement, but a potential alternative has now been identified.
Liverpool battling Real Madrid for Dayot Upamecano
Having gotten the better of Real Madrid on the pitch, Liverpool are now trying to one-up their European foes in the transfer market, with a report from Spain revealing the two clubs are battling it out for Upamecano, although there could be competition from elsewhere.
Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United are also in the race for the defender, amid uncertainty surrounding his future at Bayern, as he is still yet to put pen to paper on a new contract to extend his stay at the German club beyond the end of the season.
Bayern defender Dayot Upamecano
Talks over a new deal have now stalled, which suggests the 27-year-old could be on the move in the summer, but Bayern would be unwilling to sanction a move during the January transfer window.
Slot is personally a fan of the centre-back, with the Dutchman of the belief he could adapt to life in the Premier League swiftly and stabilise his backline, and there are plenty of indications the Liverpool manager could be on the money.
Hailed as "outstanding" by Joshua Kimmich, the Bayern star is vastly experienced at the top level, having made 60 appearances in the Champions League and won 11 trophies, across what has been a very impressive career to date.
Despite the contract uncertainty, the Frenchman also remains a key player for Bayern Munich, most recently starting in the 2-1 victory against Paris Saint-Germain, making six clearances and winning four duels to keep the reigning European champions at bay.
That said, Liverpool haven't always been successful when recruiting from the Bundesliga, with Florian Wirtz yet to adapt to life in the Premier League, failing to register a goal or an assist.
As such, it would be less risky to simply go back in for Guehi, who has already proven himself in the Premier League.
Upamecano and Guehi have been named among the world's best centre-backs