Jurgen Klopp is set to make a big-money bid for Schalke defender Benedikt Howedes, according to reports in Germany.
DW Sports claim the Liverpool boss has identified the centre-back as an alternative to Virgil van Dijk, who he has so far failed to sign this transfer window.
According to the report, Liverpool are willing to part with £18million to land the German, who has previous experience playing alongside Joel Matip.
Speaking about a potential move in this transfer window, Howedes told Funke Sport: "I've said I won't move within [Germany] and can picture a move abroad.
"As of today, that point in time hasn't come. I received offers from other clubs after the surprising demotion from captain... that my agent checked and answered."
Southampton complete Wesley Hoedt transfer as Liverpool eye Virgil van Dijk
Southampton have signed Lazio's Wesley Hoedt — and that could give Liverpool and Chelsea fresh encouragement on fellow defender Virgil van Dijk .
Dutch defender Hoedt has his Saints medical on Tuesday, with personal terms and the fee already agreed.
Despite Southampton publicly insisting skipper Van Dijk is not for sale, this move will again raise doubts over whether they would resist any late bids for the centre-half.
Van Dijk is training with the Saints' Under-23s away from the first team squad, after making it clear he wants to leave — with Liverpool his preferred destination.
Liverpool still considering loan deal for winger Ryan Kent amid offers
Liverpool are still weighing up the immediate future of Ryan Kent - however the highly rated youngster missed training today.
The winger, on the fringes of Jurgen Klopp’s plans, has hinted that he was on his way to Germany on loan.
And he’s in demand with clubs in the Championship as well, reports the Liverpool Echo.
The Reds have been inundated with offers for the 20-year-old winger, who was rewarded with a new long-term contract earlier this month after impressing Jurgen Klopp in pre-season.