Liverpool reportedly eyeing Manuel Akanji as alternative option

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Liverpool are said to be looking at Manuel Akanji of Borussia Dortmund as a possible alternative defensive option.

The Reds are being tipped to sign a new centre-half next month following serious injuries to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.

The fitness record of Joel Matip is also a concern, so it would be no surprise to see Liverpool doing some kind of business.

The Daily Mail have claimed Switzerland international Akanji is on the Reds’ radar as an alternative option along with Brighton’s Ben White, but the likes of Dayot Upamecano, Ibrahima Konate and Ozan Kabak are seen as the likelier additions.

Akanji has been with Dortmund since January 2018, joining from FC Basel back in his native Switzerland.

To date, he’s clocked up almost 100 appearances for the club, including 17 in all competitions so far in 2020/21.

Akanji – who cost Dortmund a reported £16 million (Kicker via Sky Sports) – is noted for having a strong all-round game, with his pace and strength his two best attributes.

TBR’s View – Klopp factor could prove key

A January move for Akanji seems unlikely, but if the club end up turning to him then surely there’s a good chance of him joining.

Klopp is loved by Dortmund for all he did there before becoming Liverpool boss, and his influence could help get a move over the line.

From Akanji’s point of view, the prospect of working under Klopp will undoubtedly appeal given his stature in the game and ability to improve players.