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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Sport
Ian Doyle

Jurgen Klopp admits Liverpool considering centre-back signing as transfer change dismissed

Jurgen Klopp admits Liverpool would consider making a move for a centre-back this summer - if the right player became available.

The Reds are expected to be busy in the transfer market as they look to remould their squad in the wake of a number of key departures.

It was confirmed this week forward Roberto Firmino and midfield trio James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita will all leave on the expiry of their respective contracts at the end of the season. Goalkeeper Adrian, though, is in negotiations over extending his stay.

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Liverpool are likely to sign at least two midfielders in the forthcoming window with Brighton's Alexis Mac Allister and Mason Mount of Chelsea the priorities at present.

However, there could be scope for reinforcement at centre-back, with Joel Matip turning 32 before the start of next season and about to enter the final 12 months of his contract, while both Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams could attract offers from interested parties.

And Klopp has indicated the recruitment team will keep an open mind when it comes to the possibility of strengthening the heart of the defence.

"We look in all departments apart from goalkeeper at the moment," said the Liverpool boss. "Yes, if there is a good one (centre-back) out there, I would not deny it. That's all. We look at all areas of the pitch, definitely."

Liverpool will aim for an eighth successive victory when they entertain Aston Villa in their final home Premier League game of the season on Saturday

The strong end to the season has given the Reds an outside chance of Champions League qualification after a difficult campaign, with Monday's 3-0 win at struggling Leicester City ensuring a place in the Europa League next term at the very least.

But asked if results over the last few weeks have changed Liverpool's transfer plans for the summer, Klopp said: "No, not really. Nothing has changed."

Firmino is available for an emotional Anfield farewell having overcome the muscle injury that has kept him out of the last six games. Darwin Nunez remains sidelined with the toe problem that forced him to miss out at Leicester, while Thiago Alcantara, Stefan Bajcetic and Calvin Ramsay remain absent.

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