Liverpool Echo journalist Paul Gorst has indicated that a move for Real Betis centre-back Aissa Mandi could be on the cards.

Although the reporter claimed that he had not checked with his sources at the club, he feels a bid for the Algerian international would be logical:

“It doesn’t feel like a rumour that has no truth to it like a lot of others. Price and profile of the player make sense. Watch this space.”

Mandi only has a year left on his contract at Betis and reports indicated that the Reds could be prepared to pay in the region of €10m (£9m) for the 28-year-old.

With Dejan Lovren having been sold to Zenit St Petersburg for €12m, a replacement will be required, and bringing in someone with a good deal of experience like Mandi for a relatively modest sum does fit in with the club’s transfer strategy.

The Algerian made 30 appearances in all competitions for Betis last season with the player featuring regularly throughout the campaign. One thing to note, though, is that he picked up nine yellow cards which suggests discipline may be an issue.