Liverpool Rumors: Jurgen Klopp Wants Promising Defender As Possible Replacement For Inconsistent Veteran

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp may be planning to meet with RB Leipzig star Nordi Mukiele, whom he has tagged as a possible replacement for injury-riddled defender Dejan Lovren, a report said.

Ahead of the summer transfer window, Klopp appears to be scouting some reinforcements in the hopes of retaining Liverpool's Premier League supremacy next season. One of the players linked to a possible exit from Anfield is veteran defender Lovren.

According to Le 10 Sport (via Teamtalk), Klopp is keen on exploring RB Leipzig star Mukiele as an early replacement for Lovren. The German coach is reportedly planning to hold talks with Mukiele over a move this summer as Lovren’s future with the Reds remains "unclear."

Mukiele has managed to establish himself as a regular feature in Leipzig’s young and talented squad. With abilities to play at right-back or cover as a center-back, the report emphasized that versatility is what Mukiele can offer Liverpool. The reigning Premier League champions have yet to make a bid for the 22-year-old defender, but sources claimed that arrangements are already being put in place.

Aside from reportedly drawing strong interest from Klopp, Mukiele has also been linked to other big clubs across Europe. The report noted that Liverpool is expected to face competition for the Leipzig ace. Tottenham Hotspur and Paris Saint-Germain are among the clubs also reportedly monitoring Mukiele’s situation.

In a recent press conference, Klopp addressed Lovren's status with the team. According to the legendary manager, Lovren hasn't been able to provide consistency for the squad due to recurring injuries.

"He has been injured a couple of times (this season) and wasn’t available but Dejan played outstanding games for us," Klopp said.

Despite pointing out that Lovren is a "very important" player for the Reds, Klopp admitted that the veteran player is either very significant for the team or unavailable.

"There is a value to his experience, absolutely. Since I’ve been in here, Dejan was always either in the team, close to the team or not available," he added.

Meanwhile, Liverpool has reportedly "agreed terms" with in-demand Bayern Munich Thiago Alcantara. Liverpool Echo reported that following Klopp's approval, the Reds have now reached an agreement with the Spanish midfield star.

Alcantara is entering the final year of his contract with the German side, but reports revealed that the Reds have already valued the midfielder around £22 million to £23 million ($27.6 million to $28.9 million).

Despite dealing with injuries, Alcantara is still viewed as a great addition to Liverpool with his elite-level midfield playmaking.