Liverpool set sights on 'top target' who Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag wanted to sign

Liverpool are keen on signing an Ajax defender coveted by Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, according to reports.

The Reds spent last summer strengthening their midfield, with Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo all arriving.

They were linked with a move for a centre-back, but decided to end the window with youngster Jarell Quansah complimenting the senior quartet of Joel Matip, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez.

Quansah has adapted well to life in the first team after spending the second half of last season on loan at League One side Bristol Rovers.

Manager Jurgen Klopp has praised the 20-year-old on numerous occasions, and he has started two of Liverpool's three Europa League wins this term.

But the Reds are reportedly still eyeing versatile defensive options, particularly in light of left-back Andy Robertson's recent injury.

According to Football Insider, Liverpool have identified Ajax defender Devyne Rensch as a target for the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old can play at right-back and centre-back, and the Reds see him as a rotation option for Trent Alexander-Arnold and appreciate his versatility to feature in different roles.

Rensch has made seven appearances for Ajax this term, and has been a regular in the first team since his senior debut during the 2020/21 season.

Given the struggles of the Eredivisie giants this season - they are currently bottom of the division after eight games - the defender may be tempted to make the switch to Anfield.

Should Liverpool complete the move, they would be beating Manchester United to the defender's signature.

According to The Sun, Ten Hag was keen on signing Rensch and Jurrien Timber last January to bolster his defence.

But Timber ended up signing for Arsenal this summer from Ajax - and he could be dealt a secondary blow in the form of Rensch, with money currently tight at United.

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