Liverpool are reportedly targeting Torino defender Gleison Bremer ahead of this summer's transfer window.
This will be the Reds' first off-season of recruitment since the departure of Michael Edwards, who worked wonders alongside Jurgen Klopp in assembling a world class squad. Now Julian Ward, who previously worked under Edwards, will be the man leading the negotiations.
Bremer's exploits in Italy have attracted plenty of attention and several Premier League clubs have been linked with the Brazilian. Torino are ready to auction off their player in a bid to get the biggest fee, according to Torino Granata, with Liverpool among those set to enter the race. Juventus, Torino's local rivals, also have an interest.
Bremer is aware of the backlash that could come from an internal Turin switch so may consider moves elsewhere. That would play into Liverpool's hands as they consider their options. Klopp currently has four centre-halves at his disposal in the form of Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez.
The latter has previously been a regular but has found his game time hampered by the club's other options. As a result he may seek pastures new which would leave Klopp seeking cover for the young Englishman.
Bremer began his career in the youth system at Atlético Mineiro before heading to Italy in 2018. The 25-year-old's speed and dominance in the air have been cited as major strengths for the defender.
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The Brazilian played a crucial part in his team's Europa League journey several years ago, seeing off Wolves in the process. Bremer signed a lengthy contract extension in February, with his current deal due to expire in the summer of 2024, and his boss Ivan Juric said: "He [Bremer] has great ambitions but he understood that the club has given him a lot and he wanted to recognise that. He put the club in a position to remain calm."
Back in April Bremer had been leading Europe's top five leagues for interceptions whilst also being a leading player in other stats. His signing would be another coup for Ward, who played a key role in the arrival of Luis Diaz back in January. The Colombian has proved to be a big hit at Anfield since his move from Porto.
Klopp clearly has a lot of confidence in Ward and has previously said on his new transfer guru: "Jules is doing an incredible job and that's very helpful for us and for the players as well."
