Liverpool 'given green light to move for David Alaba'

Liverpool have reportedly identified Bayern Munich defender David Alaba as a leading target.

The 28-year-old remains a key figure for treble-winning Bayern but his contract is due to expire next June, and the latest round of talks over an extension are believed to have broken down.

As it stands, Alaba would be free to sign a pre-contract with a foreign club in January, while he could also potentially leave the Allianz Arena at the start of 2021 for a reduced fee.

A number of clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea and Juventus, were linked with the Austria international during the recent transfer window.

According to Football Insider, Liverpool have now identified Alaba as a leading target, with the Reds given the green light to launch a move in January.

Jurgen Klopp's side currently have severe issues in the middle of their defence with Fabinho joining Virgil van Dijk and Joel Matip on the sidelines.

Alaba has played the majority of his career as a left-back but has since developed into a central defender, with all seven of the Austrian's outings this season coming in that area of the field.