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Roma defender Kostas Manolas' £30.5million release clause becomes active in the summer, according to the Daily Mirror, and Manchester United are reportedly interested in reinforcing their defence with the Greece defender. Liverpool, though, should not miss the chance to join the queue, as they look to bolster a weak backline.

What's the word?

Manolas has emerged as one of the finest defenders in European football during his time at Roma.

The 27-year-old has a wealth of experience at the very highest level, and is able to both defend superbly and provide a cutting edge at the other end of the pitch, notably scoring in Roma's dramatic Champions League triumph over Barcelona last season.

He is terrific in the air and also remarkably quick, qualities that would surely see him become an invaluable asset to any Premier League club.

If United are interested, Liverpool should be too.

Bolstering a thin backline

Virgil van Dijk has emerged as one of the finest defenders in world football since his move to Liverpool from Southampton, but he does not have many equals in the Reds squad.

Joe Gomez is an excellent young prospect, but he has yet to reach the level of the Dutchman.

Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip, furthermore, have been composed whenever fielded alongside Van Dijk, but neither of them have the ability to marshal a defence without him.

Manolas, though, is an accomplished defender, a leader, and his release clause makes him more than attainable for a club of Liverpool's size and stature.

Of course, Van Dijk became the most expensive defender in world football when Liverpool secured his signature, and they should do everything possible to lure Manolas to Anfield and partner him up with the brilliant Dutchman.

FFC's James Jones has identified the one thing that could cost Liverpool the title. Find out what it is in the video below...