Liverpool are on the lookout for defencive reinforcements ahead of the new Premier League season. The reds who finished second in the premier league last season lost out on the title due to the enormity of goals they conceeded over the campaign. Although the Reds were firing on all cylinders having recorded over 100 goals during last season they conceeded 50 goals on the way, 13 more than eventual league winners Manchester City. Because Rodgers wants to improve his options in the backline to sure up the defence and he has targetted Southampton’s Croation centre back Dejan Lovren and Chelsea’s young left back Ryan Bertrand.
Lovren who impressed during his first season in the premier league with a string of inspired performances helped Southampton to an eight placed finish in the league, whereas Bertrand sured up an Aston Villa defence that looked in deep trouble during his loan spell at Villa Park. Rodgers is planning a £15 million move for Lovren and he hopes to follow that up by meeting Chelsea’s £7 million valuation of Bertrand who the Liverpool manager worked with during his time working under Jose Mourinho as Stamford Bridge.
Since Carragher retired Liverpool have lacked leadership in the heart of their defence, Rodgers is hopeful that Lovren will bring similar leadership qualities to Carraghers with him if he is to move to Anfield, this move looks likely as the Croation has handed in a transfer request at Saint Mairy’s and is said to be desperate to join Lallana and Lambert at Liverpool. Rodgers is also looking to sure up what has been a problem area for Liverpool since John Arne Riise left the club, left back. Liverpool have Jose Enrique however he spent the vast majority of last season on the treatment table. Bertrand is seen as competition and cover for the Spanish wing back.
Liverpool who completed the £25 million signing of Adam Lallana from Southampton yesterday are set to be busy in the transfer market as Rodgers looks to beef up his squad ahead of a title push and the added pressure of Champions League football returning to Anfield next season.
Written by Ben Waterhouse – @BenWaterhouse_
