Liverpool have a golden opportunity to bolster their defensive line with negotiations between Nottingham Forest and Sporting Lisbon over 22-year-old centre-back Ousmane Diomande hitting a snag.
French journalist Sebastian Vidal revealed the breakdown in talks between the clubs:
Liverpool could benefit from the failed negotiations between Nottingham Forest and Sporting for Ousmane Diomande. The Ivorian defender, valued at around €40 million, remains available for transfer and has long been on the Reds' radar as they seek reinforcements in defence.
Defensive reinforcements necessary
Andoni Iraola's side desperately needs to secure a high-calibre player to strengthen their central defence.
Loss of Konate: French defender Ibrahima Konate has left Liverpool on a free, and the club has yet to sign a direct replacement for his position.
Risk factors: The age of Virgil van Dijk means they cannot count on him to play every match without rotation, while concerns persist over the fitness of new signing Jeremy Jacks following an injury.
Valued at €40 million, the Ivorian is viewed by the Merseyside hierarchy as a ready-made solution for their defensive needs.
