Liverpool are currently one of the best teams in Europe but there are certain areas in the squad that they need to work on this January if they are to lift the Premier League trophy this season, after 30 years and also compete in the latter stages of the UCL.
Andrew Robertson has been impeccable at left-back but James Milner, who is a make-shift full-back, remains his only backup in the first team.
So it is no secret that Jurgen Klopp will be keen to sign a backup for the Scot in January. There are not many names that meet the profile of a Liverpool full-back but here are three such players the Reds can target this January.
Juan Larios (Barcelona)
Though reports from The Daily Record claim that Manchester City have managed to fend off interest for Larios, Liverpool are mentioned as one of the many clubs that are looking to sign the academy product from La Masia.
At just 16, Larios is already tipped to break into the first team, showing great defensive stability and an impressive attacking prowess.
Liverpool will have to toil to get this deal done but as a backup to Robertson, Larios could be a game-changer for the Anfield outfit, not just as an emergency option but secure that spot for the future as well.
Mathieu Goncalves (Toulouse)
Another youngster extensively linked with a move to Anfield is French U18 international Goncalves. Having broken into the first team for Le Tefece earlier this season, the 18-year-old is now regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the left-back role in his country.
Known for his pace and the incredible energy he shows up and down the flank, Goncalves is an aggressive defender who loves to win the ball back quickly.
He has a decent technique and will fit into Klopp’s playing style pretty well. At his age, he will be happy to learn the trade in England and signing him makes a lot of sense for the Premier League leaders.
Noussair Mazraoui (Ajax)
One of the many impressive youngsters currently creating a wave in Amsterdam, Mazraoui was crucial in the club’s run at home and in Europe, making a total of 36 starts last season. At just 22, he is already a regular in the first team and also has four international caps for Morocco.
He can play in the full-back roles on either wing and can also put in a shift in the midfield. He is a naturally right-footed player, which could put off this deal but his potential and the experience he has already gained makes him an attractive target for Jurgen Klopp.
Ajax have dropped out of the Champions League which could also make this deal easier to get over the line for Liverpool this January if they wish to pursue it.