Liverpool have reportedly made direct contact with Bayern Munich regarding a potential transfer for Joshua Kimmich as a possible replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The 26-year-old captained Liverpool in their FA Cup third-round victory over Accrington Stanley and netted an excellent first-half goal before being awarded Player of the Match.
However, the England international is approaching the end of his existing contract at Anfield and has yet to agree to a new deal beyond the end of this season.
While the Reds have remained firm on their stance of not wanting to sell their homegrown star, it seems they may have identified a suitable replacement should he depart before the winter transfer window closes.
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Liverpool open talks over Joshua Kimmich signing
According to Sky Sport France, Liverpool are eyeing up a move for Bayern Munich star Joshua Kimmich if Alexander-Arnold moves on this month.
The report adds that the Reds are in direct talks with the German international's representatives to discuss a potential transfer, recognising the versatility and defensive stability he offers.
Kimmich, like Alexander-Arnold, will become a free agent this summer, as his contract at the Allianz Arena is set to expire at the end of this season.
Several European giants, including the likes of Manchester City, Barcelona, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also said to be keeping tabs on him.
Reports from Germany suggest that Kimmich held talks with Bayern bosses on Wednesday last week, but no final decision was made on his future.
The 29-year-old has played every minute for the Bundesliga leaders in all competitions this season.
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Reds eyeing up attacking reinforcements
While Alexander-Arnold's future at Anfield remains unclear, he is not the only player whose contract has entered its final six months.
Mohamed Salah is also nearing the end of his deal on Merseyside and has been heavily linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League at the end of this season.
Football Insider revealed this week that the Reds are planning for life after the Egyptian King and are considering a move for Leroy Sane, who will also be out of contract at the end of this season.
Sane is now able to speak with clubs outside Germany about agreeing a pre-contract deal and it is understood that Bayern may be willing to part ways with the winger for a fee of around £25m.
Liverpool currently lead the Premier League standings by six points with a game in hand on the sides below them, and will resume action on Tuesday night when they travel to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest.
Devesh Jaganath
