Liverpool are set to send scouts to watch Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite in action next week, according to fresh reports.

The Lowdown: Reinforcements required

The Premier League giants have had both Virgil Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate sidelined through injury this season. Reports are also suggesting that Jurgen Klopp is willing to sanction exits for Joel Matip and Nat Phillips, so reinforcements are definitely needed.

The 6 foot 5 Branthwaite is currently out on a season-long loan at PSV Eindhoven, where his impressive performances under Ruud van Nistelrooy have caught the eye of a trio of potential suitors, one of those being from Merseyside.

The Latest: Liverpool eyeing Branthwaite

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool, Manchester United and AS Roma will ‘send scouts’ to watch Branthwaite at PSV ‘next week’ ahead of a potential move this summer.

The centre-back being homegrown is an attribute that has kept both the Anfield outfit and the Red Devils ‘on his trail’, whilst Jose Mourinho’s side have been ‘regularly’ monitoring his progress.

The Toffees are reportedly ‘happy’ to take stock upon the conclusion of his loan, making this an open race for his signature.

The Verdict: One for the future

Branthwaite is only 20 years of age, but having been hailed a ‘terrific footballer’ by his former Carlisle United manager Steven Pressley, he would be an excellent signing for the future of Liverpool.

The left-footed starlet currently averages 3.4 clearances and 1.8 aerial wins per Eredivisie game, but also has three goals to his name across all competitions this season, highlighting the impact he provides in both boxes (WhoScored).

Branthwaite is only valued at €3m (£2.6m), and whilst it remains to be seen what the Reds' rivals would ask for him, it could be an absolute bargain should FSG be able to land him for anywhere near that price.