Jurgen Klopp has decided to go beyond Europe to scout for new talent, as reports emerge of him eyeing Porto’s Nigerian defender Chidozie Awaziem
According to a report by The Sun, Jurgen Klopp has his sights set on FC Porto’s 20-year-old central defender Chidozie Awaziem as the transfer window gets closer. The Merseyside club have been tracking the Nigerian player in recent weeks, as Klopp is looking to boost his defence.
In the report, it is said that a Liverpool scout contacted Awaziem during Nigeria’s friendly match against Senegal at Barnet, where the defender was an unused sub as both sides drew the match 1-1.
Media reports from both Nigeria and Portugal claim that a move to Anfield is likely to be on the cards for the youngster.
Although Awaziem’s agent has not confirmed the meet yet, he did mention that it could happen, given the 20-year-old’s potential.
Awaziem broke into the Primeira Liga club’s first team last season. He has made 33 league starts for FC Porto’s B team so far this season.
The Nigerian international joined Porto way back in 2014 from a club called El-Kameni Warriors, and has made 10 senior appearances for the Portuguese outfit.
Another one of Awaziem’s biggest triumphs is when he featured in the UEFA Youth League, which resulted in a victory over Real Madrid for his team.
He also put up an impressive defensive display when Porto played Benfica recently, which is touted as one of their biggest games this season.
Liverpool’s defence has not impressed much this season, and as Klopp gears up to take control of the club for the second full season, he is likely to make some changes to the back line. Liverpool have also been linked recently with Mattia De Sciglio, Elsied Hysaj and Ryan Sessegnon.
The club recently lost to Crystal Palace 2-1, and will be looking for a victory against Watford as they get ready to fight for a Champions League spot.
