Liverpool's need for defensive cover appears to be growing, with sporting director Richard Hughes reportedly ready to pursue a £47 million move for a centre-back described as the "new Mats Hummels." The transfer link comes at a time when the club's options at the back are under fresh scrutiny.
The immediate concern is Joe Gomez, who was reported to have picked up an injury during a preseason friendly against Sunderland. The 29-year-old's setback adds to the sense that Liverpool may need to act in the market if they want stronger depth at centre-back before the new campaign gets underway.
That has increased attention on the defender being linked with Anfield, particularly because of the comparison to Mats Hummels. While the available details do not identify the player in the trimmed report, the suggestion is that Liverpool see him as a high-level option capable of strengthening a vulnerable area of the squad.
For now, the focus is on Gomez's condition and whether Liverpool accelerate their plans. If the injury proves significant, Hughes could face added pressure to turn interest into a concrete move as Liverpool look to protect themselves against further problems in central defence.
