Liverpool are set to launch a bid for Lille defender Sven Botman.

Foot Mercato says Liverpool made contact with the agent of Botman in November regarding a future move to the club and are set to battle Inter Milan for his signature, according to reports.

Jurgen Klopp is still struggling for options in the centre-back role following long-term injuries to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, which the duo picked up against Everton and on international duty respectively.

The former did raise hopes he could return this season from his cruciate knee ligament injury with a recovery montage that was released, but that may not alter the club's plans in the transfer market next month.

Lille have reportedly set a £45million (€50m) valuation for Botman, but the Ligue 1 side would be willing to sell the player for £27m (€30m).