Liverpool planning move for Schalke 04 defender Malick Thiaw?

Schalke 04 defender Malick Thiaw has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Liverpool.

With Virgil van Dijk likely to miss the rest of the season due to a serious knee injury, Jurgen Klopp will consider his options during the January window.

Although Rhys Williams and Nathaniel Phillips have impressed over the past week, it is unclear whether Klopp is prepared to keep the pair as backup on a long-term basis.

According to Bild, the Premier League champions may instead look to bring in Schalke prospect Thiaw.

While the 19-year-old has only made seven outings in the senior squad, the youngster is regarded as a possible star of the future.

Thiaw has a contract at the Veltins-Arena until 2024, putting Schalke in a strong position regarding their valuation.