Liverpool are considering a move for Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde, according to SPORT.
The Reds are in dire need of fresh legs across the backline after failing to bring in enough defensive reinforcements in the summer transfer window.
Liverpool did not add a natural full-back on either flank despite losing Andrew Robertson on a free transfer and Conor Bradley to a long-term injury.
They opted to retain Konstantinos Tsimikas despite a massively underwhelming loan spell at AS Roma and keep faith with Jeremie Frimpong, who has failed to impress.
Liverpool are also hoping Dominik Szoboszlai can cover at right back in Frimpong’s absence after proving his incredible versatility last season.
However, that decision has backfired. Liverpool are still unbeaten across their opening four Premier League games and got their Champions League campaign off to a winning start.
But those results have papered over the cracks, and the club have already started exploring a few options ahead of the January transfer window.
Balde is one of several names on their radar, especially with Barcelona looking to cash in.
The 22-year-old reportedly has a complicated relationship with head coach Hansi Flick, which has pushed him down the pecking order.
He’s not pushing to leave Barca but would be open to moving to the Premier League if his situation at Spotify Camp Nou doesn’t improve over the next few months.
However, Liverpool will likely face competition from Inter Milan and Premier League rivals Manchester United, who are also keeping an eye on Balde’s situation.
SPORT claims the Spanish left-back could be available for a cut-price fee, making him an attractive option for clubs looking to bolster their backline.
Balde has an extraordinary €1 billion (£855.9m) release clause, but the report claims Liverpool could snap him up for around €40m (£35m).
The Spain international has yet to kick a ball for Barcelona this season. He has been benched for five consecutive games and could be forced to consider his future in January.