Liverpool kick off search for a new centre-back by making contact with versatile Barcelona veteran Jeremy Mathieu
Reds boss Jurgen Klopp wants new defender to solve backline crisis after losing Mamadou Sakho and Joe Gomez to injuries
LIVERPOOL have made contact with Barcelona defender Jeremy Mathieu, according to reports.
The Reds are in the market for a new centre-back following Martin Skrtel’s departure to Fenerbahce and Joe Gomez’s latest injury setback.
Veteran Kolo Toure was released when his contract expired last month, while Mamadou Sakho is struggling with an Achilles problem after seeing his recent doping ban lifted.
The Frenchman is expected to partner new signing Joel Matip once he returns from injury, but in the meantime Liverpool only have Dejan Lovren to turn to.
And Jurgen Klopp is determined to add at least one more name to his backline this summer ahead of a Champions League push and possible title challenge next season.
A number of defenders with Premier League experience are available on free transfers, including ex-Manchester City man Martin Demichelis.
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But French newspaper Le Parisien claims Klopp is targeting 32-year-old Mathieu as a short-term option.
believes Liverpool are in talks with the France international, who also has an offer on the table from Besiktas.
However, Mathieu apparently favours a Premier League switch and could provide Liverpool with cover at centre-back and left-back in the upcoming campaign.
The Reds have already completed moves for Marko Grujic and Loris Karius, and could yet add Newcastle’s Moussa Sissoko to their ranks.
But there could also be more exits at Anfield following Jordon Ibe’s £15m switch to Bournemouth.
Championship winners Burnley are preparing a loan move for Jon Flanagan, while flop striker Mario Balotelli has been told to find a new club.