Liverpool are believed to be regularly scouting Alaves’ on-loan left-back Theo Hernandez, as they prepare to fight off Real Madrid this summer.
Jurgen Klopp is expected to prompt another overhaul of his ranks ahead of the 2017/18 campaign, with the German admitting on Tuesday he was seeking “more options” in attack.
The Reds’ forward line is not the only area requiring reinforcement, however, with defence a clear summer priority.
While James Milner has performed commendably at left-back this season, Klopp is likely to pursue an alternative to the vice-captain, with Alberto Moreno due to leave the club.
And according to the Independent, Liverpool have kept a close watch on Atletico Madrid’s Hernandez, who has been in great form with his loan club this term.
They claim that the Reds have been scouting the 19-year-old throughout 2016/17, and could make him a summer target.
Hernandez would be available for a relative bargain fee of around £20.5 million due to a release clause in his contract with Atletico.
And while he is still a teenager, the Frenchman is certainly a left-back signing Liverpool supporters could get behind, as a strong presence in both defence and attack.
However, Real are also interested in Hernandez, serving as formidable competition in the market.
Liverpool have been previously reported to be preparing a contract offer worth treble the terms Real would be willing to pay.
And with the Independent corroborating claims of their interest, this now seems a more likely situation.
Hernandez would be able to slot into Klopp’s system due to his upbringing at Atletico, who operate under a similarly demanding manager in Diego Simeone.
He is also able to perform as a centre-back, giving Klopp flexibility at the back, which could be key as the likes of Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren have suffered regular injury problems.
Real and Atletico do not enjoy a close relationship, particularly in the transfer market, which could give the Reds the advantage as they pursue Hernandez.
But given their recent track record when competing against Europe’s heavy hitters, it would still be unwise to put big money on the youngster turning out at Anfield next season—we can but dream!
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