Another day, another development in Liverpool‘s potential quest for a central defender in January – this time it’s Ozan Kabak‘s turn as Fabrizio Romano confirms the Reds’ interest in the Schalke 04 player.
Speaking on his Here We Go podcast, the reputable Italian journalist said that Kabak is “appreciated” by the Liverpool hierarchy and that “they’re in contact” with the 20-year-old’s representatives.
The departure of Dejan Lovren to Zenit St Petersburg left Jurgen Klopp light on senior defensive options before the need for a centre-back was exacerbated by the long-term injuries suffered by Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez.
Various reports have linked Klopp with a move for Kabak among others; andit has also been claimed that there will be no major incomings in the January window – a decision which represents a huge risk given the fitness frailties of Joel Matip in the past.
Kabak has been one of the few players to cover himself in any glory this season at Schalke, who sit rock bottom of the Bundesliga with a pitiful record so far.
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To not sign a central defender of any description in January would be shortsighted and the likely preference should be to sign a youngster who can play a part now whilst learning his trade.
Therefore, Kabak could present the perfect solution – especially given his recently-revised asking price from £40m to £25m as Schalke look to stave off financial difficulties which could stem from potential relegation.
The Reds aren’t alone in their admiration of the Turkish international and are unlikely to be afforded a free run at capturing Kabak’s signature. However, with plenty to attract players to the red half of Merseyside these days, it’s a distinctly winnable venture.
