Liverpool join Premier League rivals in race for Juventus defender

With the transfer window approaching its climax, Liverpool are still in the market for reinforcements, with a defender on the agenda.

Jurgen Klopp's side are reportedly interested in a young, versatile defender. The Reds have switched to a new system in recent months but do not have a specialist left-sided centre back, instead using Andy Robertson in an often more restricted role.

Meanwhile, Joel Matip's contract is set to expire next summer, further accelerating the need for more depth.

According to Calciomercato, the Reds are 'in the picture' to sign Juventus defender Andrea Cambiaso, who spent the 2022/23 campaign on loan at Serie A side Bologna. The report states that Liverpool are 'above all' in the race to sign the 23-year-old, with Premier League sides Tottenham Hotspur and Nottingham Forest also believed to be in the running for his signature.

Cambiaso is tied down at Juventus until 2027, but the Bianconeri may be willing to let him go before the transfer deadline, be it on loan or a permanent deal. The Italian is primarily a left back but is also capable of playing on the right due to his versatility.

Despite claims that the Serie A giants could part with Cambiaso, he has begun the current campaign in fine form, starting the first two games for the Old Lady and also notching up an assist in their 3-0 win against Udinese. The 23-year-old is believed to be highly rated by Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri, who has thus far used him as a left wing back in a 3-5-2 formation.

Though potentially a talented player, Cambiaso would not address the Reds' immediate need for centre back depth, making this deal appear, at best, a left-field one.

Elsewhere, Liverpool have shown interest in Bayer Leverkusen's Piero Hincapie – though Anfield Watch understands a deal in 2024 is more possible – and Rennes' Arthur Theate.

The club are also still looking at midfield additions, with Cheick Doucoure and Ryan Gravenberch among those still in the frame.