Liverpool FC targeting a new defender after fresh injury setback

It was an Achilles heel again in 2014/15 when it exacerbated the problem of losing 30 goals from Luis Suarez at the other end of the pitch, while they conceded 50 again last season, ultimately finishing eighth and failing to qualify for Europe in any form.

But he has not featured for his parent club since a substitute appearance in Liverpool’s 4-0 win over Everton back in January 2014 and is considered surplus to requirements under Jürgen Klopp.

In the meantime, Klopp appears intent on determining whether to either include the player in his plans for the new season or allow him to leave.

Liverpool are yet to open talks with Allen, who was named in Uefa’s team of Euro 2016 as Wales reached their first semi-final at a major tournament.

“We will find a solution but it’s not done”, Klopp told BBC Radio 5 Live.

“I feel we didn’t play 100 per cent in the game. That’s how it works”.

LeBron James has offered his services to Jurgen Klopp and, given the Reds’ issues from set pieces over the last couple of seasons it’s probably not a bad idea to throw all 6ft 8in of the Cleveland Cavalier into the backline. At present Allen has just one year remaining on his Liverpool contract, with an extension having not yet been discussed.

Markovic, who joined Liverpool from Benfica for £20m in 2014 – fee reported by BBC Sport – spent last term on loan at Fenerbahce and was expected to get this pre-season to impress the Reds manager.

There are reports emerging today that Manchester United and West Ham United are battling it out for the signature of Liverpool midfielder Joe Allen.