Report: Liverpool 'Well Placed' To Sign RB Leipzig Defender Josko Gvardiol

After a disappointing season at Anfield, Klopp is expecting to refresh his squad with the defence and midfield likely to be the main areas of focus.

Virgil van Dijk remains an automatic starter and whilst Ibrahima Konate has proved to be his most reliable partner, the French international has had injury problems that have limited his availability.

Joel Matip, who was excellent during last season's campaign, has failed to hit the same high levels, and Joe Gomez has also struggled for form and consistency.

That has left Klopp, with Nathaniel Phillips also expected to depart, in need of at least one new central defender ahead of the new season as he tries to reinvigorate his flagging team.

According to Football Insider, sources have told them that the Reds are very much in the hunt to sign 21-year-old Gvardiol from RB Leipzig but will face 'strong competition' from Manchester City, Manchester United, and Real Madrid.

Gvardiol is reported to have a release clause of £97million that kicks in at the end of next season so clubs will be keen to agree a deal for his services this summer to avoid being forced to pay such a huge fee for a player who is considered to be one of Europe's brightest talents.