Liverpool transfer news: Major update emerges on Klopp chase for defensive colossus Josko Gvardiol

A report has emerged on Sunday updating Liverpool’s chase for Red Bull Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol, who is one of the most sought-after centre-backs in European football.

Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is a huge admirer of the Croatia star, who had a tremendous World Cup in Qatar that saw his stock rise even higher as his nation reached the semi-finals before defeat to Argentina.

And while Klopp would love to bring the player to Anfield, it appears that option is no longer on the cards.

Liverpool are well known to be in the market for another central defender this summer, having conceded an uncharacteristic 38 goals in 31 league outings this term.

Virgil van Dijk continues to look a shadow of the player he was before his serious knee injury, while Joe Gomez and Joel Matip could both be moved on when the campaign comes to an end.

And with Klopp being given permission to rebuild his defence and midfield, Gvardiol would have been an incredible addition.

However, Football Insider reports that the Leipzig man is no longer being considered by the Reds due to his price tag.

It is understood that the Bundesliga side are demanding a financial package close to £80million, including add-ons and bonuses – a figure that Anfield chiefs consider too rich for their liking.

Liverpool leave path clear for City, Spurs in Gvardiol chase

But even if Liverpool decide against a move for the player, that is unlikely to stop the likes of Manchester City and Tottenham making moves of their own.

Gvardiol has been a huge presence for Leipzig this season, making a36 appearances in all competitions as his side currently holds the final Champions League spot in Germany.

But with Liverpool now seemingly out of the running for the defensive colossus, Football Insider states the other players that remain on their radar.

The Reds still look set to go head-to-head with Tottenham for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Evan Ndicka, whose contract is up in the summer.

A perhaps more surprising target is Chelsea youngster Levi Colwill, with the Reds impressed hugely impressed with his performances on loan at high-flying Brighton this season.

Liverpool are back in action on Wednesday evening when they head to West Ham in the Premier League.

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