Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is considering a double swoop for Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen and Arsenal skipper Thomas Vermaelen to boost his side’s defensive frailties.
The Reds are currently fourth in the Premier League, six points ahead of fifth placed Tottenham Hotspur, and despite leading the goalscoring charts with 70, the club have shipped 35 goals – only Newcastle have conceded more among the top 11 clubs.
Kolo Toure, Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel are Rodgers’ current central defensive options, but FootballDirectNews.com understands the Northern Irishman will spend big in the summer, with the Belgian pair top of the list. Vertonghen has become an integral part of Spurs’ squad since joining the club from Ajax in 2012 but could be tempted by a move to Anfield if Liverpool qualify for the Champions League ahead of Spurs. Vermaelen, meanwhile, has started just three Premier League games for the Gunners so far this season but is highly regarded by Rodgers, and the Anfield boss believes a bid of around 8 million would draw Arsenal to the negotiating table. A source told us: “Brendan knows that he needs to strengthen his defence and he’s not messing about. “Vermaelen and Vertonghen are two quality players, and he’s keen on both. It’s set to be an interesting summer. ”
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