Meet the Swiss centre-back who could be heading to Liverpool

Meet the Swiss centre-back who could be heading to Liverpool

      Liverpool’s defence had little to do in last night’s 0-0 draw with Manchester United, but having failed to keep a clean sheet in their previous nine Premier League games, Jurgen Klopp is keen to make additions – with Hoffenheim centre-back Fabian Schar reportedly top of his shopping list. The 24-year-old defender has impressed during an unbeaten start to the Bundesliga campaign for Die Kraichgauer – but is believed to be open to a move, having found himself in and out of the starting XI since his move from FC Basel in 2015. And he could be set to find a new home at Anfield, with Klopp looking to expand the Reds’ defensive options.

      Right now the German gaffer has only three senior choices at centre-back, in the form of Joel Matip, Ragnar Klavan and Dejan Lovren. There’s also no doubting the quality the Switzerland international possesses. A neat passer of the ball, he’s also a robust and disciplined performer at the heart of defence. Schar is no stranger to a goal either, having already netted 25 times during his career, scoring against European heavyweights like Chelsea in the process. He also boasts experience of lifting silverware – a valuable asset in a Liverpool side packed with quality, but short on players with a track record of lifting major honours.

      Three Swiss Super League titles at Basel by the age of 23 is some feat, while he’s also experienced games on the biggest stage. The Wil native has impressed in the Champions League and played every minute for Switzerland as they reached the knockout stages of Euro 2016. So, there’s plenty of reason for Klopp to be keen – and there’s another bonus in the player’s low asking price. Sources suggest he could be available for around £9m – a very modest fee where players of such pedigree are concerned.

      For the current Liverpool squad, the focus will be on this weekend’s trip to Crystal Palace, as Klopp’s men bid for a third successive victory at Selhurst Park. It’s 7/10 for the Reds to take all three points, while a repeat of the 2-1 margin they’ve managed on the last two visits looks generously priced at 7/1.

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