Liverpool looking at Mustafi to solve defensive problems

Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing Arsenal defender Shkodran Mustafi to solve their centre back problems.

The Reds are without Joel Matip after the 29-year-old picked up an injury during the win against Spurs.

He’s now joined fellow defenders Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez on the sidelines at Anfield.

According to the Evening Standard, Liverpool could make a bid for Mustafi before the transfer deadline on Monday.

He is one of a number of options being considered by club officials.

Mustafi could be the cheapest player available due to his situation at the Emirates.

He is now entering the final six months of his contract and is expected to leave Arsenal soon.

On Monday, reports emerged stating that Arsenal might terminate his contract early.

That means Liverpool could sign the player on a free transfer and give him a contract until the end of the season.

Another option being considered is New York Red Bulls centre back Aaron Long. The 28-year-old is currently on an off-season in America, which means he could join the Reds to solve their problems in the short term.

The news comes after Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp seemed to reverse the club’s stance on signing a defender.

Speaking yesterday, the German coach said: “We will try. It is funny when you all think ‘oh Liverpool will be just fine with the situation and they don’t care or try.’

“We try but there is nothing to say until something happens. We will see. The situation yesterday didn’t make it easier but we still try to do the right things. If that’s possible, we will do it. If not, we won’t.”

At the moment, the Reds have youngsters Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips available at centre back.

But the pair look like they could be out of their depth for a season run-in of this magnitude.

Klopp has also used midfielders Jordan Henderson and Fabinho in defence. Signing a new centre back would allow him to use the influential duo in their ideal positions.