Liverpool now interested in signing aerially dominant defender who has an ‘unbelievable’ work-rate – journalist

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Liverpool has been linked with a transfer move for Ko Itakura, who might be the perfect for Jurgen Klopp’s style of play.

It is no secret that the Reds are on the hunt for a centre-back either in the January or the upcoming summer transfer window. With Joel Matip’s injury, and his expiring contract in 2024, Klopp is lacking depth in the defensive department.

One player the Reds have been keeping an eye on according to Fabrizio Romano is Borussia Mochengladbach’s Japanese international, Ko Itakura. Romano claims Liverpool have sent scouts to keep an eye on the centre-back ‘multiple times.’

The 26 year old is regarded as among one of the best defenders in the Bundesliga having caught the eye with his performances since arriving at Mochengladbach back in the summer of 2022. Before that, Itakura was on the books at Liverpool’s rivals, Manchester City – but he never made a first team appearance for Pep Guardiola’s side and spent his time on loan.

Like Virgil van Dijk, Itakura made his senior bow at Dutch side Groningen, where he spent two seasons on loan from Manchester City.

Ko Itakura – the right fit?

Tall, composed on the ball and relatively quick, Ko Itakura ticks a lot of boxes for Liverpool. According to Romano he has a release clause in his contract, but it does not come into effect in the January window.

This season he has been in great form, averaging the most headed goals (0.27 per 90) out of centre-backs in the Bundesliga and completing 92.68% of his attempted passes as per Wyscout.

When he arrived at Mochengladbach, the club’s sporting director spoke in glowing terms about his qualities describing one trait in particular as ‘unbelievable.’

“Ko covers an unbelievable amount of ground and is a tactically disciplined player who can operate in different positions in defence, including as a No.6. He had a number of attractive options in terms of a transfer, so we’re all the more delighted that he’s decided to join us because he’s a cornerstone of our planning,” Roland Virkus said as per Bundesliga.com.

That description definitely explains why Itakura is a perfect match for Klopp. The Liverpool boss loves players who are capable of covering a lot of ground – which is crucial for his gegenpress to work effectively. He also enjoys working with versatile players, capable of playing in more than just one role.

This is a transfer that’s unlikely to happen in the January transfer window (especially with Itakura competing at the Asian Cup) but it’s definitely one to watch ahead of the summer.