1. Jonathan Tah (Bayer Leverkusen)
The 20-year old has been in fine form this season, earning him an International call-up following the injury to Antonio Rudiger. Formerly of Hamburg, his performances have been noted, by Chelsea and Liverpool. He was a target for Manchester United in 2012, aged 16, but opted for Hamburg. Liverpool are now on the scene and the youngster would fit into Klopp’s model of buying young and developing them in stars.
2. Shkodran Mustafi (Valencia)
Leaving Everton in 2012, the 24-year-old signed for Sampdoria before moving to Valencia in 2014 and has become one of the best defenders in La Liga. He scored in Germany’s Euro 2016 opening game against Ukraine in their 2-0 victory in Lille. He would be the perfect addition should he make a move to Anfield this summer as he is strong in the tackle and has good aerial prowess.
3. Benedikt Höwedes (Schalke 04)
A key figure for Schalke and Germany, he was one of three players to play every single minute of the 2014 FIFA World Cup for Germany. Having signed his defensive partner Joel Matip, could Klopp swoop for another Schalke man this summer and re-join the partnership? The 28-year-old is a “defensive all-rounder”, naturally left footed, he can play, centrally, left back or left even wing back. He poses great strength, has a fine heading ability and has a no-nonsense style of play.
4. Niklas Süle (VFB Hoffenheim)
The 6ft 5ins colossus has a formidable physical presence. At 20, the Hoffenheim youngster has what it takes to withstand the rigors of Premier League football. With out question he is an outstanding talent and would shine under the guidance of Jürgen Klopp. Again fitting the young model profile, he could play alongside any defensive partner. He has been compared to a young Per Mertesacker. He is strong, intelligent and has a good football brain for his young years - the perfect Škrtel replacement.
5. Neven Subotić (Borussia Dortmund)
A player Klopp knows well, Subotic, 27, joined Dortmund in 2008 following his former boss from Mainz and has made 251 appearances for the Bundesliga side. Could a re-union be on the cards at Anfield? The Serbian International will be looking to resurrect his career having been out of favour under Thomas Tuchel last season. Should he move to Merseyside, he could go on to be a key figure in the Reds back line.
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