Liverpool step up transfer interest in £18m Turkish international keeper Ugurcan Cakir as Alisson back-up

TURKISH goalkeeper Ugurcan Cakir is on Liverpool's radar and the Trabzonspor star's agent has touted an £18million deal.

The Reds experienced life without Alisson Becker earlier in the season and Jurgen Klopp is said to be convinced that he needs a new, long-term back-up.

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Having scouted the 23-year-old, Liverpool are named by Cakir's agent Engin Kirkpinar as among the teams tracking his progress.

Kirkpinar told : "Liverpool are one of four English sides keeping close tabs on Ugurcan.

"Liverpool are among the sides interested in Cakir, and they have been monitoring his progress.

"Trabzonspor value Cakir as being worth a minimum £18m, and will not sell him in January.

"An end-of-season move could however be on the cards."

Adrian ably backed up Alisson for 11 matches earlier in the season but, at 32, may not be considered strong enough to challenge the Brazilian in the long run.

Meanwhile, Cakir made his Turkey debut in May to help their impressive defensive form in Euro 2020 qualification.

Featuring as Mert Gunok's deputy, the shot-stopper has conceded just one goal in his two caps - matching his similar impressive numbers for Trabzonspor.

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The Black Sea side sit third in the Super Lig after letting in just 24 goals in their 18 games across all competitions this campaign.

By contrast, Liverpool's impeccable defence has somewhat deserted them this season.

The Reds haven't kept a clean sheet in almost two months and are yet to keep a home shutout.