Jurgen Klopp is reportedly looking for a new defensive partner for Virgil van Dijk (Getty Images)

Jurgen Klopp has identified Sevilla’s Diego Carlos as the centre-back he wants to partner Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool, according to reports.

The Premier League leaders have seen both Joe Gomez and Joel Matip impress alongside Van Dijk, who has been in top form since he moved to Anfield from Southampton for £75 million in December 2017.

But according to Sport, Klopp views Diego Carlos as the ‘ideal complement’ to play alongside Van Dijk.

The 27-year-old centre-back has a €75 million (£65.8m) release clause in his deal with Sevilla.


Sport report that Barcelona are also in the race to sign Diego Carlos and have been planning a move for the Brazilian ‘for some time’.

Barcelona are ready to make a move for Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos (Getty Images)

It’s reported that Barca’s hierarchy view Diego Carlos as a ‘complete footballer’ who can make the step up to Champions League football.



Sevilla signed the Brazilian from French side Nantes for around £13.5m last summer.

However, Barcelona are unwilling to meet Diego Carlos’ release clause and are willing to offer Ivan Rakitic to Sevilla as part of the deal.

It’s understood that Rakitic, who has started just 10 games in La Liga this season, is open to returning to his former club.

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