Liverpool are eyeing up a move to sign Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck this summer to replace Ibrahima Konate, according to DaveOCKop.
The Reds are expected to have a busy summer transfer window after a disappointing campaign in which they finished fifth in the Premier League, narrowly qualifying for the Champions League on the final day.
Several players are leaving Anfield, with Mohamed Salah and Andy Robertson confirmed to be departing, while Ibrahima Konate will leave when his contract expires too after an agreement couldn't be reached over a renewal. Now a replacement is needed for the defender, and an ideal target has been identified.
Liverpool Could Move for Schlotterbeck
Nico Schlotterbeck celebrating after scoring for Borussia Dortmund
Schlotterbeck, who has been described as 'elite', had been heavily linked with a move away from Signal Iduna Park this summer, before he signed a new contract in April that tied him down with the Bundesliga club until 2031.
However, it's understood that the deal contained a release clause worth around £50m that is only available to certain clubs, and Liverpool are believed to be one of them. That has left the door open for the Reds to make a move, and with Konate now departing, a new centre-back is expected to be targeted during the summer window.
It's reported that Schlotterbeck's agents have visited Liverpool's training ground as recently as this season, with potential options being scoped out ahead of his next destination, before he signed a new deal.
But despite that deal being signed, the existence of the release clause means he could likely be tempted to move on this summer for the right offer. The 26-year-old is part of the Germany squad travelling to the USA, Canada, and Mexico for this summer's World Cup, so no decision on his future is expected to be made before that.
Liverpool Need a Top Centre-Back to Join
Nico Schlotterbeck
With Konate leaving Anfield, Liverpool must bring in a top defender this summer if they want to compete at the top level once again.
Virgil Van Dijk will be turning 35 before the new season begins, and a £60m deal for Jeremy Jacquet has already been completed ahead of the summer to strengthen the squad. Joe Gomez is also part of the squad, although his future is unclear, and youngster Giovanni Leoni is still recovering from an ACL injury.
A player like Schlotterbeck would be a statement signing, but would also be a bargain if the £50m fee can be sorted, and so this could be one to watch.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot Related
Liverpool Must Pounce On Deal For 'Best In The World' Defender To Replace Ibrahima Konate
Liverpool may need to look for centre-back options as Ibrahima Konate is set to leave the club.