Liverpool and Manchester United are reportedly set for a transfer duel to sign Benjamin Pavard, according to reports from Germany, as both sides look to bolster their defensive options.
The opening game of the new Premier League season revealed that Jurgen Klopp's side seriously needs a new defensive midfielder.
The German also needs a new defender that can slot into his new-look system that features three players in defence when the team is in posession.
Andy Robertson has struggled to adapt to his new demands and Liverpool appear to be looking at options to bolster their backline.
Last month, trusted German football reporter Christian Falk confirmed that Liverpool were in discussions with Benjamin Pavard's representatives over a move to Anfield this summer.
The defender was close to reaching a personal terms agreement with Manchester United but now, German publication Sport Bild reports that the defender has agreed a contract with Erik ten Hag's team.
Significantly for Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp is interested in bringing the Frenchman to Anfield and is a player the manager has had on his transfer list "since the start of the window."
Liverpool's new look system sees Trent Alexander-Arnold venture further infield than ever before, allowing the gifted Scouser to have a much greater impact when his side is in posession.
The issue, however, is that the space he vacates is, in turn, also much greater than ever before.
Liverpool are lucky that Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino made the surprising decision to play Mykhailo Mudryk on the right wing when he was brought off the bench during the 1-1 stalemate at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.
Pavard moving to Anfield would allow Klopp to utilise the Frenchman at right back to further unlock Alexander-Arnold's creative potential.
The priority this summer remains signing a new no.6 as it's clear Liverpool will find success difficult to find this season without a holding midfielder to protect the back four.