Liverpool prepare move for Basel’s Manuel Akanji as an alternative to Virgil van Dijk
Manuel Akanji has attracted interest from Liverpool. (Getty Images) Liverpool are preparing an offer..
Liverpool are preparing an offer for Basel defender Manuel Akanji, according to reports.
The 22-year-old has impressed for the Swiss champions this season and was one of Basel’s star men in the 1-0 victory over Manchester United last month.
According to The Independent, Liverpool are exploring alternative signings to Virgil van Dijk and Akanji is high on their shortlist.
Liverpool failed in their attempt to sign Virgil van Dijk in the summer and were even forced to publicly apologise after details of Jurgen Klopp‘s meeting with the Dutch defender were made public.
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It’s now claimed that Liverpool will not make a move for Van Dijk in January unless they receive encouragement from Southampton, while Klopp also faces strong competition from Manchester City as Pep Guardiola is looking to reinforce his defensive options.
Akanji, who made his senior debut for Switzerland earlier this year, would be a cheaper alternative but Basel have no plans to sell the central defender in the upcoming window.
That may suit Liverpool, however, as they are prepared to wait until the end of the season.
The Independent claims that Borussia Dortmund are also keen on Akanji and are planning to test Basel with an offer in January.
Dortmund chiefs have already met with Basel to discuss a deal and reports in Germany claims this week that the two clubs were in ‘advanced talks’.
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