Liverpool are being heavily linked with a future move for Schalke's Joel Matip.

Recent reports suggest that Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is a big admirer of the Cameroon defender and is set to make a move for him in January.

24-year-old Matip, who can play defensive midfield as well as centre-back, is out of contact at Schalke in the summer and is free to speak to clubs regarding a pre-contract agreement when the winter transfer window opens.

Klopp knows Matip well from his time in Germany and feels he would be the perfect replacement for Kolo Toure who is unlikely to be offered a new deal when his existing one expires at the end of the season.

Matip was linked with Newcastle United last summer but the Magpies were unsuccessful in their pursuit of the 10million-rated Cameroon international.