Liverpool have been linked with a move to sign Frankfurt star Evan Ndicka - and they may be able to secure his signature without paying a transfer fee.
The 23-year-old centre-back is out of contract at Frankfurt this summer, having spent five years at the German club.
In that time, the Frenchman helped the side to win the Europa League last season for the second time in their history, making 11 appearances across the competition.
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Described as a 'phenomenal' player by former head coach Adi Hutter, Ndicka is yet to make his senior debut for France, but has represented them at age group levels.
Last month, 90min claimed that Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City were all monitoring the centre-back, who stands at 6ft 4in tall.
In addition, PSG are also said to be admirers of the player, whilst Manchester United and Newcastle have held interest but have decided against adding another left-sided defender to their squads.
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That could give Liverpool the opportunity to strike - but they will need to do so quickly.
Ndicka to Liverpool?
One major stumbling block that exists for the Reds is Roma.
This season's Europa League finalists have approached the Frenchman over a move, and 90min report that Jose Mourinho's side are 'confident' of securing his signature as a free agent.
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That gives Liverpool little time to hijack any deal if they want to add Ndicka to their squad for next season.
A left-footed centre-back, Ndicka would add competition for Virgil van Dijk, with his pace, stature and aerial abilities making him perhaps the ideal option for Jurgen Klopp's squad at an affordable price. The Reds do not have a natural left-footed centre-back in their first team setup.
Liverpool would have to pay training compensation, and OneFootball claimed in January that Ndicka's agents were demanding a €15 million signing-on fee.
However, for a player that has his peak years ahead of him, has Champions League experience and has established himself in a top five European league, a move for Ndicka could be one that Liverpool decide to pursue before it is too late.
Featured Image Credit: Alamy / Agostino Gemito/LPS via ZUMA Press WireTopics: Liverpool, Eintracht Frankfurt, Premier League, Transfers