- Liverpool reportedly make offer for Lazio’s Stefan de Vrij
- Reds face competition from other top European clubs
- Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk also remains a target
- SEE MORE: Klopp: LFC mum ordered me to play her son v Swansea
Liverpool are seemingly striving to rectify the mistake they made in the summer by lining up potential alternatives to Southampton’s Virgil van Dijk.
The Reds rested their hopes on the Dutchman as their one and only centre-back target prior to the new season, only to see a proposed move capitulate following a complaint against the club for an alleged illegal approach.
Jurgen Klopp is expected to enter the market in January as he looks to bolster his defensive options ahead of a tight battle for a top four finish in the Premier League.
Though Van Dijk undoubtedly still boasts a spot on the top of Klopp’s wishlist, the Liverpool boss appears intent on preparing backups this time round.
With doubts continue to loom over a deal for Van Dijk, the club has lodged an offer for Lazio’s Stefan de Vrij, according to Turin newspaper Tuttosport.
The report also suggests Liverpool face competition from Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Juventus.
Liverpool will be hopeful of Lucas Leiva putting in a good word for the club, with the Brazilian having teamed up with De Vrij at Lazio during the summer transfer window.
Whether it be De Vrij or his fellow countryman Van Dijk, Liverpool have no excuses not to add to their defensive ranks in some capacity following the turn of the year.
Between Dejan Lovren’s costly errors and Joel Matip’s niggling injury concerns, there remains an obvious weakness to address.
The race for Van Dijk is already threatening to trudge along courtesy of serious competition from both Chelsea and Manchester City- the latter of which are believed to be in pole position to sign the defender.
Despite the spending power of the Premier League leaders, it appears Liverpool will also be in a position to meet Southampton’s hefty asking-price.