Sebastian Coates looks to have played his last game for Liverpool, according to reports emerging this evening.
The Uruguayan defender played in the embarrassing FA Cup fourth round defeat to Oldham on Sunday afternoon and The Mirror report that it will be his last appearance, with a move to Brazilian side Gremio on the cards.
Coates, who arrived from Nacional for £7m in August 2011, and has been linked with a move to several clubs recently, with West Brom reportedly interested in a loan move for the 6ft 5in defender. Juventus are also interested in a loan deal.
But reports suggest Brendan Rodgers would prefer to sell Coates in order to bring in another defender. An area that clearly needs strengthening for Liverpool.
Coates has started just once in the Premier League under Rodgers – the first home game of the season against Man City. Recently he has found himself behind Jamie Carragher as understudy to regular centre back pairing Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger.
Liverpool have been linked with a series of centre-backs during this transfer window, including most recently Ashley Williams (Swansea) and Nicolas Isimat-Mirin (Valenciennes).
Coates’ departure would be another signing from the Kenny Dalglish / Damien Comolli era departing Anfield.
UPDATE: Gremio have, according to Brazilian website Sambafoot, denied their interest in Coates. But then again, many clubs deny interest in a player before signing them.
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