Arsenal outcast Shkodran Mustafi wanted by Liverpool in shock last-ditch transfer to fix defensive crisis

LIVERPOOL are reportedly lining up a shock deadline day swoop for Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi.

The German centre-back, 28, has played just three times in the league this season.

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Mustafi’s contract is also set to expire this summer.

And he looks likely to leave the Emirates after joining from Valencia in 2016.

However, the claims Liverpool are ready to end Mustafi’s Arsenal career six months ahead of schedule.

The Reds remain deep in the midst of a centre-back crisis after Joel Matip suffered ankle ligament damage against Spurs.

Virgil van Dijk has missed most of the season with a cruciate ligament injury, with Joe Gomez also a long-term casualty.

Liverpool were expected to finally replace summer exit Dejan Lovren this month in order to prevent the likes of Jordan Henderson being used as a makeshift defender.

And Matip’s injury has seen Jurgen Klopp line up compatriot Mustafi.

Arsenal could be willing to sell to a rival in order to bank some cash.

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And it now remains to be seen if a deal can get across the line before tomorrow’s deadline.

Liverpool have also been linked with New York Red Bulls star Aaron Long.

While bookies claim Liverpool is the most likely destination for West Ham’s Issa Diop.

However, Liverpool could yet make a move for Preston’s Ben Davies, who had looked destined to join Celtic.