Liverpool are set to reignite their interest in Sporting Braga defender David Carmo according to a report from Portuguese newspaper O Jogo (via Sport Witness).
The lowdown: A series of unfortunate events
The Reds were heavily linked with a move for the 22-year-old back in January 2021 when Jurgen Klopp's squad was plagued by defensive injuries, with Joel Matip, Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez all long-term absentees at the time.
Liverpool instead completed a double deadline day swoop for Ben Davies from Preston North End and Ozan Kabak on a loan deal from FC Schalke to join Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams as the only recognised centre-backs at Anfield.
Soon after missing out on a move to Merseyside, Carmo suffered a broken leg in the Taca de Portugal semi-final against FC Porto in an incident with now Kop favourite Luis Diaz.
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Having made a successful return to action, an interest could once again be arising from the Anfield club...
The latest: Contact made
As per O Jogo, translated by SW, Liverpool didn't 'erase the name' of the Portuguese youth international following their initial interest.
It's claimed that scouts from the club continue to 'follow closely' Carmo's development and have already made contact following a 'recommendation' from Klopp. New sporting director Julian Ward could make the powerful defender an early transfer target ahead of the summer window.
The report also states that the 6 foot 5 powerhouse, who has been likened to Van Dijk no less, is 'very likely' to leave Braga should a €40million (£33.7million) release clause be met.
The verdict: Positional overkill?
After the arrival and subsequent instant impact of Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig, Klopp currently boasts four high quality central defensive options in the Liverpool squad.
Albeit both Matip and Van Dijk are over 30, neither are showing signs of an early demise and look set to play a huge role over the coming years.
However, should Gomez become restless with his own spot in the pecking order and seek pastures new, the Reds would need a replacement and that is where Carmo may come in.
Possessing strong aerial, tackling and passing ability (WhoScored), the talented seven-cap Portugal Under 20 starlet appears ready-made to enhance Klopp's defensive department and at the mooted release clause would represent supreme value for money.
In other news, Dominic King confirms Liverpool transfer interest. Read more here.