Liverpool made contact with the agent of Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha in early December and are now competing with Premier League rivals for his signature.

Jurgen Klopp’s need for a top class defensive midfielder is well publicised in spite of his side’s impressive defensive record in the Premier League.

The Reds were unable to manage a win over Manchester United, succumbing to a 0-0 draw at Anfield, however, with just 15 league goals conceded in 2023/24, no side has conceded fewer.

Yet, having a natural defensive midfielder in the starting lineup remains a hindrance to Klopp’s tactics.

After TEAMtalk reported at the start of December that Liverpool are one of the sides to have “held conversations” with Palhinha’s agent, Record in Portugal report the Reds are competing with five other clubs to sign him.

Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Bayern Munich have long since been interested but Manchester City are also reportedly interested.

While playing for Pep Guardiola may be enticing for Palhinha, he would face the same fate as Kalvin Phillips if he moved to the Etihad.

Rodri, widely regarded as the best defensive midfielder in the world, is simply too good to be displaced by Palhinha.

At Liverpool, however, the Portugal international would be an undisputed starter and could even help guide them to the Premier League title.

Signing the 28-year-old would cost around €70 million (£60.2m) but would greatly enhance their title credentials.

Dropping two points against Manchester United allowed Arsenal to climb to the top of the table but with the Gunners visiting Anfield on the weekend, Klopp’s men have the chance to ensure they enjoy Christmas as league leaders.