Liverpool open talks to sign Colombian teenager?

Although Liverpool have recently posted successive wins over Everton and Newcastle United in the Premier League, the Merseyside giants have endured one of their poorest seasons in recent memory.

As well as remaining down in eighth position in the top-flight standings, Liverpool are out of the FA Cup and are currently preparing for a Champions League last-16 showdown with Real Madrid.

Jurgen Klopp has already acknowledged that the club must be active in the summer transfer window if they wish to close the gap to the likes of Arsenal, Manchester City and Manchester United.

The biggest change is expected to come in midfield with current squad members due to be out of contract, but alterations could also occur in defence.

That may see Liverpool look to sign senior alternatives to the likes of Joel Matip and Nat Phillips, although it appears that consideration is also been given to the future.

According to Football Insider, Liverpool hold an interest in securing a deal for Mantilla later in 2023.

The 19-year-old has been a regular with Colombia Under-20s, earning a total of 15 caps through his performances for Santa Fe.

Mantilla has made 25 appearances in all competitions, with many of his outings coming in the top tier of Colombian football.

Liverpool were allegedly left impressed with how Mantilla performed during the recent South American Under-20 Championship and are now keen to negotiate a deal.

Preliminary talks are already said to have been held for a player who can play at full-back and centre-back, his most familiar role being the latter.

As it stands, it is unclear what fee would be required to sign Mantilla, although it appears unlikely that he will be immediately considered for first-team football at Anfield should he complete a move to England.