Amid a major injury crisis on Merseyside, Liverpool may have been handed a beacon of hope. Bayern Munich's David Alaba has reportedly refused another new deal with the German side and could be walking away from the club as a free agent next year (via Christian Falk).

The SportBild reporter has revealed that this is now the third round of attempted negotiations that have fallen through between Alaba and the Bavarians.

The plot thickens as Football Insider claims that the Austria international is high up on Liverpool's transfer list. After signing former teammate Thiago Alcantara this summer, it may not be a million miles away to suggest Alaba could favour a move to the Reds too.

Liverpool centre-back crisis

As it stands, the Reds are in a huge predicament as they currently have just one senior recognised centre-back at full fitness. The initial blow of Virgil van Dijk's ACL injury rocked the club, but further news of Joel Matip and stand-in defender Fabinho also being out has raised a code red situation at Anfield.

Jurgen Klopp has been almost second-guessed after Liverpool opted not to replace Dejan Lovren in the summer window. Instead, two attackers and a left-back came through the door, leaving the heart of the defence somewhat exposed. Certainly now, things look bleak for the reigning Premier League champions, who could be forced to rely on 19-year-old Rhys Williams until January.

Why Liverpool should sign David Alaba

The 73-cap Austrian boasts extreme versatility and could plug several leaky holes in Liverpool's squad. According to Transfermarkt, Alaba can play on either side at centre-back as well as in the left-back position. He is also confident shifting into midfield, which could create great chemistry with Fabinho who is a similar player to the 28-year-old.

Despite being valued at £58.5million, Alaba's current situation could see Liverpool agree terms with the player in January. Should he sign a pre-contract, the defender will join the Reds as a free agent in the summer. This will be music to FSG's ears, who have been known to be hesitant when it comes to spending money in the past.

Alaba boasts nine Bundesliga titles with Bayern Munich, two Super Cups and two Champions League titles (via Transfermarkt). His experience would be a huge benefit to Klopp's team, adding to the balance of seniority and youth moving forward.

Signing such a proven defender of Alaba's calibre is a no brainer for Liverpool. Whilst they may have to wait until next season to get their hands on him, the temptation of getting him for free is too high to pass up. This is a deal that Michael Edwards must prioritise in order to prevent another crisis like this one happening again.

Looking for a Liverpool Gift? Take a look at the dedicated Liverpool Fan Gifts site for the latest reviews, shopping advice and links to the best products in the market. With new items added daily this should be your #1 destination. They have everything from the latest and classic Shirt as well as memorabilia, toys and gifts.

In other news, Jurgen Klopp’s ignorance on the transfer market will cost Liverpool dearly...