Report: Liverpool in a race against time to sign Schalke star

The Premier League champions are making preparations to sign the defender in a possible deadline day transfer.

Liverpool are working on a loan deal to sign Ozan Kabak from Schalke on a loan deal until the end of the season, with a buy option included.

Jurgen Klopp has made searching for a new center-back a priority amid long-term injuries to Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez. Preston defender Ben Davies could be on his way to Anfield, but the Reds boss isn’t done yet.

Sky Sports states Liverpool are ironing out the details to sign Kabak on a £2.5m (€2.8m) loan deal. They want a buy option included to sign the 20-year-old permanently in the summer. The success of this deal, however, hinges on whether Schalke can find a replacement.

Schalke are on the verge of signing Shkodran Mustafi from Arsenal, paving the way for Ozan Kabak to join Liverpool. (Source: @ManuelVeth)#DeadlineDay pic.twitter.com/ykLDeD9Mx0

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) February 1, 2021

The Royal Blues have reportedly set their sights on Arsenal center-back Shkodran Mustafi, who has also been linked with Liverpool.

Should Schalke sign Mustafi, or another defender before the German transfer window closes on Monday evening at 18:00 (CET), Kabak can join Liverpool.

Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano claims the Turkey international has agreed on personal terms. Therefore, he is set to undergo a medical in Germany in the event a chance to join Liverpool opens up.

Liverpool updates. Talks on to reach the agreement with Schalke for Kabak – discussion about option/obligation to buy. It’s getting closer, personal terms agreed.#LFC have also contacted Braga today for David Carmo, serious option in the list.

Ben Davies, done. 🔴 #DeadlineDay https://t.co/LJQRQ35uFO

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) February 1, 2021