Report: Liverpool came close to signing Duje Caleta-Car from Marseille

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Liverpool left it too late during transfer deadline day to complete a deal for Marseille defender Duje Caleta-Car, according to RMC Sport.

The centre-back was at the airport ready to head to England with the Premier League champions keen to sign the 24-year-old.

An injury to Joel Matip in a game against Tottenham tempted Liverpool into the market for another defender.

Throughout the window, the Reds maintained they would not sign anyone but an injury to the Cameroonian forced their hand.

Ben Davies was added from Preston North End and the club also sought another option from the European market.

Caleta-Car was high on Liverpool’s list of targets but ultimately they left Marseille with no time to sign a replacement, scuppering the deal.

Jurgen Klopp turned to Ozan Kabak later in the day and the Premier League giants managed to get a deal for him over the line.

Caleta-Car has played 78 times for Marseille since arriving from Red Bull Salzburg, scoring three goals.

The Croatian defender has 10 caps for his country since making his debut in June 2018.

He would have proved a decent addition to the Liverpool ranks and was available for around £20 million.

 TBR View: Have Liverpool missed a trick with Caleta-Car?

It’s perhaps unfair to suggest whether they have or not until Kabak or Davies have kicked balls for their new club.

Liverpool could have landed the £50,000-a-week star but ultimately let Marseille with no time to sign a replacement.

The summer could be a time for Klopp to revive his interest but if he continues to impress, there could be plenty of other clubs interested.

Caleta-Car’s progress will be monitored with intrigue by Liverpool fans.