AC Milan are set to ramp up their interest in Liverpool centre-back Dejan Lovren to ensure he signs this summer, according to Italian outlet TuttoSport (via Calcio Mercato).

A central defender has been highlighted as the number one priority by new boss Marco Giampaolo and Liverpool’s Dejan Lovren, whose role in the squad has somewhat diminished since the rise of Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, apparently fits the bill.

After claiming himself to be one of the best central defenders in the world, the Croatian has somewhat struggled to find a foothold in Klopp’s plans. Following his return from injury, which left him unavailable until October, Lovren made just 18 appearances all season, and was left on the bench for the all-important Champions League semi-finals and final.

BBC Sport pundit Garth Crooks wrote back in January that the former Southampton man 'might have to start looking for new employers' following the impressive performance of Fabinho as a central defender against Brighton, while the Liverpool Echo suggested new signing Sepp van den Berg could be fast-tracked into first-team thinking, such is the level of his talent.

Sky Sports, however, have recently claimed the European champions do not want to sell the man who has racked up 126 appearances (Transfermarkt) under Klopp's stewardship, despite the options they have in central defensive areas.

So, Milan's interest may indeed fall on deaf ears, should the Reds continue in their reported stance of wanting to retain his services.

Liverpool fans, do you agree Lovren should be sold? Let us know in the comments below...