Liverpool’s defensive problems have been one of the reasons why they have not all but cemented a top four spot this season. The problems in their defence were for all to see in the 2-2 draw against Bournemouth as they gave away another lead late on in the game and the Walters goal last night against Stoke.

While the centre-backs have been a problem area, the bigger one is that of the left-back. Jurgen Klopp has not been able to find a proper replacement for Alberto Moreno and has stuck with James Milner taking up that role.

The former Manchester City man has done an admirable job but his abilities are being wasted as he would be better off playing in the midfield. Looking to make a quick move in the transfer market, Klopp and the Reds are now targeting Atletico Madrid’s rising star Theo Hernandez.

The left-back has been playing at Deportivo Alaves on loan this season and has helped them reach the Copa del Rey final in which they will face Barcelona.

The 19-year-old has been in great form for the side and has taken part in 25 La Liga games and has chipped in with three assists. Hernandez has also played up top as a winger and that could be another position that Klopp would love to use the Frenchman at.

The Cadena Star now reports that the Reds are looking to secure the signing of the €24 million-rated defender from Atletico and are willing to bump up his pay to five times what he currently earns at Madrid.

At 19, he would be a great option for the future but Liverpool haven’t had a lot of luck with defenders from Spain recently. Alberto Moreno and Javier Manquillo come to mind as the most recent signings and they both were failures at the club.

The Reds might look to gain some signings from the Bundesliga like Jonas Hector or Sead Kolasinac but as every day passes and no concrete news comes from the club, Liverpool fans will be anxious as they would not want a repeat of the poor defensive performances next season.