Liverpool are protecting tabs on Borussia Monchengladbach’s defender Ko Itakura however might face competitors from Tottenham, in keeping with Fabrizio Romano.
With Joel Matip dominated out for a lot of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament harm, The Reds are one in need of centre-back choices and are set to enter the marketplace for one other defender to supply cowl and depth as they’re nonetheless in all competitions this season.
Itakura has emerged as a goal as Romano reviews that Liverpool have despatched scouts to look at the Japan Worldwide’s performances on a number of events.
Nevertheless, Liverpool might face competitors because the revered journalist says Tottenham have additionally been keeping track of the 26-year-old. Ange Postecoglou beforehand focused Itakura whereas teaching Celtic and has maintained his curiosity at Spurs.
Itakura’s contract at Borussia-Park is about to run out in 2026 and though his official launch clause isn’t talked about within the unique report, transfermarkt values Itakura at £13m.
The Reds want new defender
The Japan worldwide initially joined Schalke on mortgage within the 2021/22 season, contributing to their promotion again to the highest flight. His spectacular shows within the second tier attracted curiosity from a number of golf equipment. Whereas Schalke couldn’t safe a everlasting deal, he selected to remain in Germany, signing with Gladbach.
Itakura’s keep within the Bundesliga has not been as clean as he would have anticipated. He has been marred by harm points and taking part in for a workforce that hasn’t carried out exceptionally effectively since his everlasting transfer to Germany, impacting his efficiency at instances. Although his type has been inconsistent, he stays a key participant for the workforce.
Though theoretically right-footed, he’s comfy sufficient on the ball to ceaselessly play because the left-sided center-half. The qualities exhibited by Itakura align with Liverpool’s strategic issues for bolstering their defensive choices subsequent season.
We’ll have to attend and see whether or not Liverpool determine to formalise their curiosity in Itakura however we also needs to keep watch over Tottenham with Postecoglou seemingly eager on the defender, too.
