Liverpool is considering signing Fabricio Coloccini as a potential replacement for Jamie Carragher. The Daily Mirror reports the Reds might bid for the Argentine international when the transfer window re-opens in January.

It is believed that director of football Damien Comolli personally scouted the 29-year-old Newcastle defender recently. The Argentine international will be out of contract at the end of the season. Liverpool can buy him outright in January or sign him to a pre-contract anytime after Jan. 1.

Coloccini has found a home in the Newcastle defense since joining the club in 2008. He became an instant starter after his £6 million ($9.7 million) move from Spanish club Deportivo la Coruna. He stuck with the Newcastle through its relegation in 2009 (and subsequent promotion) and is recognized as one of the top defenders in the English Premier League.

Newcastle would consider accepting a bid in the £6 million region. It would love to keep its star defender, after such a promising start to the current campaign. The Magpies are fourth in the league and dreaming of a place in one of next season’s European competitions.

If Coloccini joins Liverpool, he would immediately contend with Carragher, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel for a place in the Reds’ starting lineup. At age 33, Carragher is nearing the end of his playing career. He recently said could retire as soon as 2012.

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