Liverpool have reportedly earmarked an African star as a potential replacement for defender Virgil van Dijk, who has been linked with an exit from Anfield.
The Merseyside outfit has identified Bayer Leverkusen and Ivory Coast star Odilon Kossounou as a target for the current transfer window should the Dutchman decide to leave, and have already enquired about his availability, according to Caught Offside.
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Van Dijk is now in the final year of his contract and has been linked with an exit from the Reds, with it being claimed the centre-back has attracted interest from the Saudi Pro League.
It has also been suggested that the Netherlands international has given the green light for representatives to negotiate with the club.
The Premier League side have already lost the services of centre-back Joel Matip, who left as a free agent after eight years at Anfield.
As such, Liverpool are thought to have placed the task of reinforcing that area of the pitch high up the list, with it being suggested that they are big admirers of Kossounou.
Reports suggest that the club now led by Arne Slot have enquired about a potential deal for the Ivorian, with Die Werkself understood to have set a price tag ranging between €40 million to €45 million (R794 to R893 million) for the player.
Kossounou, who is contracted to Leverkusen until June 2026, is believed to be keen on a move to England.
It has also been claimed that the 23-year-old is ready to leave the Bundesliga, with Leverkusen said to be willing to let the defender go if the right offer comes their way.
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He helped Xabi Alonso's side to an iconic 2023/24 season that saw them win a domestic double, adding to his 2023 Africa Cup of Nations gold medal.