Liverpool chiefs are prepared to send away one of their young defenders this month.

The Liverpool Echo says Southampton are pondering a move for Nat Phillips.

Rhys Williams is certain to attract a host of clubs should Liverpool allow him to leave on loan, although that would be dependent on the situation of his fellow centre-back.

Earlier in the summer, the Reds placed a price tag of at least £10m on Neco Williams in anticipation the 20-year-old right-back would press for a move in search of regular first-team action.

There has yet to be any movement regarding the Wales international.