Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is the subject of interest from Zenit Saint Petersburg, according to reports from the Daily Mail.

The Slovakian, who moved to the Premier League from the Russian giants in 2008, has lost his place in the Reds’ starting line-up of late, after a shaky display in the club’s FA Cup defeat to Oldham.

This has prompted speculation that he may be allowed to leave Anfield, alerting his former club.

It is believed that they are willing to offer £13m for his signature, with spending power no issue for the Gazprom-backed outfit.

They would also be free to conclude a deal immediately, despite the January transfer window having closed.

All Russian clubs have until February 24th to conclude their business, with the window open for longer in their country.

It is unclear as to whether Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers will be willing to allow the centre-half to leave, with both he and Daniel Agger forming a solid partnership.

However, the Merseysiders may be tempted to cash in whilst his value is high, and allow Jamie Carragher and Sebastian Coates to compete for a starting berth.

Liverpool have also been heavily linked with moves for Swansea’s Ashley Williams and Modibo Diakite of Lazio.

If either, or both, were to be signed, it’s likely that at least one of their current defenders would be required to move on.

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