Liverpool FC are nearing the conclusion of their approach for Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi following their opening £9 million bid for the player. According to recent reports, the La Liga side have made it known to the Reds that they are seeking an offer worth £10.8 million for the 28-year Mandi.
It is understood that the Merseyside giants are desperate to finalize the signing of the Real Betis center-back. Following Dejan Lovren’s recent departure, another central defender is required by Jurgen Klopp’s side ahead of next season.
Mandi has been a stellar performer for his side in the 2019-20 La Liga season that finished last month. With just a year to go on the 28-year old’s current deal with Betis, several clubs have expressed interest in signing the center-back this summer. Moreover, the Algerian international himself is keen on sealing a move elsewhere, according to reports.
If the Reds do wrap up Mandi’s signing for a fee in the region of £10 million, it would be a fantastic piece of business in the transfer market for the Premier League champions. At just 28 years of age, the Real Betis man certainly has a long career ahead of him.
The center-back can also be a worthy squad-rotation option at Jurgen Klopp’s disposal at Liverpool FC. Joe Gomez and Joel Matip, despite being top-class defenders, are quite injury prone as witnessed in recent seasons. With Mandi’s potential arrival at Anfield, Klopp would have considerable depth in his defensive department at the club.
Besides being a natural center-half, the 28-year old Algerian can also play at right-back. This could come in handy for the Reds, who have only 19-year old Neco Williams to provide cover for Trent Alexander Arnold in the club’s first-team squad.
It does seem as if Liverpool FC are in pole position to seal their first major signing of the summer in Mandi. The Algerian international has enjoyed a great season for Betis in the Spanish league. Making 30 league appearances across the La Liga campaign, Mandi established himself to be one of the standout stars for his side.
