Maxence Lacroix and Marc Guehi emerge as targets after Joel Matip blow

Liverpool had every reason to be cheerful heading towards the festive period before it was confirmed that Joel Matip had suffered a devastating injury.

Matip, 32, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during last Sunday's epic 4-3 victory at home to Fulham, meaning that he could've played his final game for the Reds as his contract is due to expire in June 2024. While Liverpool will push on and attempt to win the Premier League without their dependable defender, manager Jurgen Klopp is set to assess his options ahead of the January transfer window, with a replacement centre-back who can cover for starters Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate in mind.

Here's a round-up of the latest news from Anfield, including a look at which targets Klopp will be evaluating next month.

Wolfsburg star Maxence Lacroix and Crystal Palace stalwart Marc Guehi are among Liverpool's options to replace Joel Matip, Mirror Football understands. The Reds rate both players highly, with Lacroix crucially more attainable for around £25million.

Left-footed, the French defender is renowned in the Bundesliga for his pace and aerial presence, while Premier League fans know all about Guehi after he joined Palace in 2021 and has since become an England international. The Eagles aren't willing to sell the former Chelsea youngster in January but could be persuaded next summer when Matip, unless given a new deal, becomes a free agent.

Jurgen Klopp has hinted that Liverpool will indeed reward Joel Matip with a new contract, despite his ACL injury. Ahead of Saturday's trip to Crystal Palace, Klopp said of the 32-year-old: "I'm pretty sure the club will show their class, just how they should do. I'm pretty sure the club told Joel already that whatever happens so