Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp allegedly holds an interest in signing Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger.
On Sunday evening, the Merseyside giants stormed to a 4-0 victory over Bournemouth to regain a five-point lead at the top of the Premier League standings with the best defensive record in the division.
However, strengthening the club's backline may soon become a priority for Klopp, partly due to Joel Matip being sidelined for the rest of the season with a knee injury and out of contract in the summer.
Although reports have indicated that Matip may be handed fresh terms, a renewal would result in Liverpool entering 2023-24 with two key centre-backs at 33 years of age, the other being Virgil van Dijk.
Ibrahima Konate is a standout first choice when fit, while Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah are also alternatives, yet there is a perception that a high-profile addition for the middle of the backline will come in the summer.
© Reuters
According to Nacional, Rudiger is a player currently on the radar of Klopp as he contemplates his options.
The 30-year-old can be satisfied with the game time that he has enjoyed in his opening 18 months at the Santiago Bernabeu, making 44 starts and eight substitute outings in La Liga.
A further 21 starts and eight appearances from the bench have come in other competitions, and there is currently a reliance on the Germany international courtesy of injuries to other key defenders.
Nevertheless, the report suggests that Rudiger is willing to listen to any offer from Liverpool at a time when he is craving a new contract with Los Blancos.
© Reuters
Despite being less than halfway through a four-year deal, Rudiger allegedly feels that he deserves fresh terms in the foreseeable future.
Although finances have been tight at Real during 2023-24, they will allegedly have greater financial leeway in the summer window, when they are expected to make changes to the first-team squad.
Whether any offers for Rudiger would be considered remains to be seen, although Real would make significant inroads with their FFP position due to the player having arrived from Chelsea on a free transfer.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Rudiger was regarded as one of the best defenders in the Premier League, while he also helped the Blues win the 2020-21 Champions League.
Darren Plant
