5 centre-backs Liverpool should consider signing this January

#2 Mattia Caldara (Atalanta)

The Juventus defender is currently on loan with Atala

Last season, Atalanta surprised everyone when they finished 4th ahead of some big clubs. This success invariably led to the departure of talented players, a cycle kick-started last January, when Juventus signed Caldara after being impressed by the young Italian's performances.

A player who idolises former Azzurri defender Alessandro Nesta, he has been the bedrock of the Atalanta defence for the past few months, and continues to grow in stature.

A player who likes to take charge of his defence, he has a great anticipation and tough tackling strength. His major strength is his aerial dominance which he also uses in the opposition box scoring 7 goals last season, a tally higher than the goals scored by the entire Liverpool defence last season.

Liverpool have missed a goalscoring defender since the departure of Martin Skrtel. Although his technique lets him down occasionally, he is only 22-years old and will improve as he plays more.

Juventus will be reluctant to part with a player they have invested in so quickly, however, with Chiellini and Barzagli still going strong and a starting spot looking unlikely right now with the Old Lady, the Reds might be able to lure him with assurances over first-team opportunities, making it a deal that might go through if Liverpool push hard enough.