Liverpool have reportedly identified FC Koln defender Jonas Hector as a possible transfer target for the summer.
Hector is currently approaching the end of his eighth campaign at Koln, having progressed from the 'B' squad to represent the first team in the Bundesliga.
However, Koln are five points adrift of safety in Germany's top flight and relegation would likely lead to Hector's departure.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Liverpool will do battle with Bayern Munich and Juventus for the 27-year-old if he becomes available for transfer.
The report claims that the Germany international has a clause in his contract under which he would cost just over €10m (£8.8m) if Koln drop down to the second tier.
Hector is capable of playing in a number of positions, including at left-back and in central midfield.
