Liverpool signing £9m-rated Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi

Liverpool signing £9m-rated Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi
Liverpool signing £9m-rated Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi

The Reds are reportedly on the verge of signing the Algerian defender.

Liverpool are reportedly closing in on the signing of Real Betis defender Aissa Mendi as Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen the backline ahead of next season.

The report also adds that the transfer will cost 9 million pounds, with Mendi entering the final season of his contract.

The Algerian has been touted as the replacement for Dejan Lovren, who recently severed ties with the Reds and had agreed for a move to Zenit St Petersburg.

Mandi, 28, has had a good season at Betis and Klopp cites him as a cost-effective addition to reinforce the defence. Mandi has already more than 50 international caps under his belt.

Furthermore, the former Reims’ man has already plenty of experience in his repertoire, which could benefit Liverpool next season.

Klopp will look to start Virgil van Dijk, and any of Joel Matip or Joe Gomez in the defence while Mandi can be a healthy back-up option.

Like many other clubs, Liverpool are expected to be idle in the transfer market; nonetheless, they could make one or more shrewd signings.

The Merseyside club are also looking to sign Thiago Alcantara this summer, with the Spaniard himself said to be favouring a move to Anfield.

It would be interesting to see how a low-profile option like Mandi could thrive in Liverpool next season.