Premier League runners-up Liverpool are lining up a move for Germany and Real Madrid midfielder Sami Khedira, according to reports in Spain.
Madrid-based sports daily Marca says the five-time European Cup winners want to sign the 26-year-old to add more protection in front of the back four which was at times too exposed last season, ultimately costing Brendan Roger’s side their first league success since 1990.
The Reds also need to start thinking about a long-term replacement for club captain Steven Gerrard, who is in the twilight of his career now after carrying the team on his own at times for the past decade or more.
Khedira was signed by Madrid in 2010 after the World Cup in South Africa and has put in some impressive performances in his time at the Santiago Bernabeu. He missed a large chunk of last season though having suffered a knee injury while on international duty in November and only made his comeback towards the end of the campaign.
He was part of the side, however, that helped Los Blancos lift the Champions League trophy in Lisbon – their 10th European Cup win.
Much speculation has surrounded the German though, with a number of top Premier League sides reported to be interested. Should Liverpool make a bid for Khedira, it is thought the likes of FA Cup winners Arsenal, along with Manchester United and Chelsea will follow suit.
Carlo should retain Khedira as Xabi has now an age factor
Robinho.falcao.