Liverpool’s defence has been a big let down for them so far this season. The Reds have conceded the most number of goals (34) among the top six with the only bright aspect in that back line being Joel Matip. While a lot of names are linked with a move to Anfield coming summer, the defence would need quite a bit of strengthening if they are aiming to be title contenders next season.
And it seems their manager Jurgen Klopp has already identified a potential addition to the squad in Real Madrid full-back Danilo. As per reports, Liverpool are plotting a move for the 25-year-old Brazilian in the next transfer window and Italian news outlet Calciomercato claims that the La Liga giants would be willing to part ways with the player if they receive an offer in the region of £21 million.
Liverpool have Nathaniel Clyne and Connor Randall as their right-back options and one look at their rivals would make it quite clear that it needs improving if the Reds are to compete at the same level. And quite interestingly, Klopp doesn’t see Danilo only as a right-back but also as someone equally adept in the midfield and it is this versatility that might prompt the German boss to splash the cash for him.
With players like Emre Can and Lucas Leiva’s futures at the club in darkness, getting someone like him becomes all the more essential. Danilo can play on either flank quite efficiently and has still seen more bench time at Santiago Bernabeu falling down the pecking order to Marcelo and Carvajal. He has managed just nine appearances in the Spanish league so far managing one goal and it is enough to hint at his position in the eyes of Zidane.
Danilo could be a back-up to Clyne and also as an option on the left defensive flank if Klopp decides to push Milner up in the midfield as and when needed. Alberto Moreno has started just twice this season, which shows Klopp’s lack of trust in him.
A youth product of second-tier Brazilian side América Futebol Clube (MG), Danilo has played in clubs like Santos and FC Porto. He moved to Madrid after impressive stints with Porto in 2015 but has found the move to be unsuccessful so far. Though his contract at the Bernabeu runs till 2021, Madrid would be happy to cash in on him.
Landing him, however, won’t be an easy task for Liverpool as they have to compete with Serie A giants Juventus, who are also keeping tabs on him.
