Liverpool are now racing Real Madrid to sign "one of the best left-backs in the world", with Andy Robertson's future at Anfield up in the air.
Reds eyeing new left-back with Robertson's future uncertain
Journalist David Lynch has suggested Robertson is now set to leave in the summer, recently saying: "Robertson, for me, that’s a certainty that he will go now… there’s no chance of a new contract now and he will depart.
Of course, nothing is set in stone just yet, but the 31-year-old's current deal is set to expire at the end of the season, and he has fallen down the pecking order, following the arrival of Milos Kerkez last summer.
If the former Dundee United man departs at the end of the campaign, Arne Slot will have to decide whether to bring in a left-back who could be an upgrade on Milos Kerkez, or someone to play more of a sporadic role, akin to Kostas Tsimikas.
According to a report from Sports Boom, Liverpool have opted for the former, with it being revealed they are now racing Real Madrid for the signature of Inter Milan star Federico Dimarco, while rivals Arsenal and Manchester United are also keen.
Should Robertson move on, Dimarco could emerge as the Reds' primary left-back target, but they may have to shell out a huge fee, with the Italian club set to hold out for as much as €80m (£70m).
dimarco-inter-milan
The full-back also has little interest in leaving his boyhood club, who recently prepared a fresh contract offer, so it remains to be seen whether a deal will be possible.
Dimarco could be upgrade on Kerkez
Real Madrid legend Roberto Carlos is a big admirer of the Inter star, saying last season: "He is one of the best left-backs in the world, I hope he always plays well. That’s the most important thing."
Since then, the Italian has gone on to put in some remarkable performances in the Serie A, amassing a whopping six goals and 15 assists this season, which suggests he could be an upgrade on Kerkez, who has just two goal contributions to his name in the Premier League.
Not only that, but the 28-year-old has won back possession more regularly than the Hungarian, averaging 1.9 tackles per 90 in the league, compared to 1.8 from the Liverpool star.
Dimarco could be a real statement signing for the Reds this summer, but they are currently at risk of finishing outside the top five, and missing out on Champions League football would do them no favours in the race for the former Sion man's signature.