Liverpool face competition for coveted Lille defenders

Liverpool are one of a number of Premier League clubs 'taking a genuine interest' in Lille defensive pair Leny Yoro and Tiago Santos, according to a report.

The two have shone for Lille this season, who have impressed in France and currently sit fourth in Ligue 1, as well as topping their Europa Conference League group.

18-year-old centre back Yoro – a France Under-21 international – became Lille's second youngest player in club history when he made his debut in May 2022.

Meanwhile, 21-year-old right back Santos only joined the French club in a €6.5m deal from Estoril in his native Portugal this summer.

TeamTalk claim that Liverpool are among several clubs whose attention has been caught by the duo, with Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham and West Ham also name-checked.

According to the report, English scouts have been impressed by Lille's style of play, while the Premier League clubs are have a 'genuine transfer interest' in both Yoro and Santos.

It is claimed that Yoro is "understood to be viewed slightly more favourably than Santos despite being the younger of the pair". However, there is no mention of potential price tags or any indication of how advanced Liverpool's – or any other club's – interest is.

Liverpool are well known to be on the lookout for defensive reinforcements next year.

After spending the summer focussing on reshaping the midfield, Jurgen Klopp's side is now due a revamp in defence.

Anfield Watch understands Liverpool are on the lookout for a young, left-sided centre back who can fit the new system that sees the Reds revert to a back three in possession.

Meanwhile, Joel Matip's expiring contract and Ibrahima Konate's availability issues mean there may be a need for more than one new addition at the back in 2024.

Liverpool are continuing to monitor Sporting CP's Goncalo Inacio, who has a £52m release clause.