Liverpool could be set to make a big transfer mistake this summer by losing out on a major transfer target.
According to reports from Spanish outlet El Periodico Mediteranneo, Real Betis centre-back Aissa Mandi is set to join Villarreal in the summer on a free transfer, with the 60-cap Algerian having apparently already undergone a medical with the Europa League semi-finalists.
News of the transfer could be a big blow for Liverpool, who could be on the hunt for a centre-back in the summer.
It was previously reported that the Reds were interested in Mandi, with the Anfield outfit thought to be considering a swoop for the defender once his contract expired at the Estadio Benito Villamarín expired.
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A move for the 29-year-old would have made a lot of sense. Jurgen Klopp’s men have struggled at centre-back this season, with the likes of Virgil van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez all suffering from long-term injuries.
The Reds did manage to add to their defensive options in the January transfer window by bringing in Ozan Kabak on loan from Schalke and also signing Preston North End’s Ben Davies. However, with the latter having not even played a minute for the club and the former only being at the club loan, it would certainly be no surprise to see another central defender arriving at Anfield in the summer.
Mandi would have been a solid option, too, having made 151 appearances in La Liga, whilst he is also hugely experienced in France, having also taken to the pitch on 126 occasions in Ligue 1 with former employers Reims.
With the news that he is set for a move to Villarreal, it appears that he will not be able to bring that experience to Anfield, forcing Michael Edwards and Liverpool to look elsewhere in their search for defensive recruits in the summer.
AND in more news, the Reds have been handed another gutting blow ahead of their trip to Old Trafford this weekend...