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What's the rumour?
According to reports from The Independent, Burnley's James Tarkowski and Newcastle United's Jamaal Lascelles have emerged as potential targets for Liverpool this summer. Jurgen Klopp is keen to add one of them to his squad ahead of next season.
In case you didn't know...
Both Tarkowski and Lascelles have made a name for themselves this season. Tarkowski has been at the heart of a resolute Burnley defence all season while Lascelles has proved to be an able captain and a leader from the back for Newcastle.
Between the two, Tarkowski has been the better defender as he has made more tackles, clearances, interceptions and blocks per game than the Newcastle man.
Tarkowski's contract with Burnley runs out only in 2022 while Lascelles has a contract till 2023.
The heart of the matter
Despite playing some of the best offensive football in Europe this season and progressing into the Champions League finals, the Liverpool defenders have come under constant criticism for lacklustre outings and rookie mistakes particularly in the first half of the season.
Virgil Van Dijk's arrival has strengthened them and Klopp is looking to add more steel to their defence and as a result, is targeting the Premier League duo. He hopes to make serious progress on either of the two as Liverpool will want to challenge on all fronts next season.
Rumour rating/probability - 6/10
At the moment, not many credible sources have reported the same and we can only classify the news as a rumour.
Video: Tarkowski in action this season
Video: Lascelles in action this season
Author's take
Liverpool do need to shore up their defence if they are to challenge for the Premier League title next season and both Tarkowski and Lascelles would be excellent buys. The respective clubs will also be willing to sell them if Liverpool can put in a substantial offer.
