Bayer Leverkusen Targets Former Liverpool Defender Joël Matip

According to Sky Germany, Bayer Leverkusen is targeting former Liverpool defender Joël Matip.

The German champions consider the 32-year-old a potential replacement for the soon-to-depart Jonathan Tah.

As well as this, Matip offers Leverkusen valuable experience at the top level, something the Werkself have been looking for after failing to convince Mats Hummels to join earlier this summer.

The former Cameroon international had a successful eight-year time at Liverpool, where he won six trophies, including the Premier and Champions League.

However, the Reds decided not to renew Matip’s contract, making him a free agent.

Therefore, Matip is free to join the club of his choosing, and according to the report, Leverkusen has already made contact with the 32-year-old. It is believed that Matip is open to returning to Germany, having previously starred for Schalke in the Bundesliga.

Although Leverkusen has plenty of options at center-back even if Tah departs this summer, the team’s reliance on a back three makes it essential to find a suitable replacement.

If Die Werkself manages to secure Matip’s signature, Xabi Alonso’s squad could see an improvement in their defense compared to their title-winning campaign.

Joel Matip was linked to Serie A sides AS Roma and Lazio last month, although links on that front have gone completely cold.

While Matip may not be the same defender he was 2-3 years ago, it is evident top-level clubs still show interest in signing the former Liverpool player.

However, his cruciate ligament tear injury last season will likely put teams off from offering contracts for more than two years.