On-loan Liverpool defender Ozan Kabak reportedly faces a race against time to be fit for the final match of the season when the Reds look to seal a top-four place with victory over Crystal Palace.
The Turkish centre-back has missed the last four matches with a muscle problem, leaving Nat Phillips and 20-year-old Rhys Williams to partner up successfully.
According to Dominic King, as cited by Watch LFC on Twitter, Kabak could return to the side at Anfield to bolster Jurgen Klopp’s defensive options.
Twitter: Ozan Kabak faces a late fitness test to determine whether his groin injury has healed sufficiently to face Palace,… https://t.co/WzHLTFKZLP (@Watch_LFC)
Important to note that the ‘conversation’ referred to is regarding the 21-year-old’s future on Merseyside – a topic that is reportedly set to be discussed after Sunday’s all-important showdown.
Unsurprisingly, the defender himself has spoken of his personal desire to remain a Red beyond this season.
Despite performing admirably for the most part since arriving on loan from Schalke on deadline day, speculation this week has suggested Liverpool won’t activate the Turkish international’s £18million permanent fee.
In nine Premier League outings, Kabak has earned an average Sofascore rating of 6.78 – meanwhile, fleeting UEFA Champions League performances earned a 7.00 rating.
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Having struggled early on, perhaps understandably given the circumstances, more recent displays have more than earned Kabak a permanent Liverpool chance – especially at £18million.
One factor that may perturb the Reds is the potential arrival of Ibrahima Konate, a deal that looks to be close to completion.
Should Klopp turn down the opportunity to sign Kabak as expected, the Turkish ace will almost certainly find himself on the move this summer after impressing on Merseyside.
Parent club Schalke were relegated to the 2. Bundesliga recently, a level Kabak would perhaps consider his abilities to be way above.
