Spanish outlet Sport reports that Liverpool are weighing up a January transfer move to sign Barcelona left-back Alejandro Balde this winter.
The Reds currently have Milos Kerkez and Kostas Tsimikas as their left-back options, with Kerkez serving as the first choice under manager Andoni Iraola.
Tsimikas has struggled to provide sufficient competition for Kerkez, and Iraola may be seeking a more capable alternative ahead of the second half of the season.
Sport claims Liverpool have now joined the pursuit of Balde, who attracted interest from Inter Milan and Manchester United during the summer transfer window.
The 22-year-old opted to remain at Barcelona despite receiving no assurances over regular playing time under manager Hansi Flick, and that decision has not proved worthwhile.
Balde has failed to play a single minute in either La Liga or the Champions League this season, leaving his future at the Nou Camp increasingly uncertain.
He has fallen to third choice at Barcelona behind Xavi Espart and Joao Cancelo, with Sport suggesting he could be available for around £34 million in January.
Espart, a 19-year-old product of the La Masia academy, has been exceptional at left-back for the Spanish champions, registering one goal and two assists in five La Liga appearances this season.
Liverpool hold a good relationship with Barcelona after recently signing Ronald Araujo on an initial loan deal, which could smooth any potential negotiations for Balde.
According to Sport, Iraola would consider the opportunity to land Balde during the winter window, viewing him as a significant upgrade on his current options.
Balde was one of Barcelona’s standout performers not long ago before injuries and competition for places disrupted his development and stripped him of his starting role.
He could be tempted by the prospect of reuniting with Araujo at Liverpool, having watched the Uruguayan secure regular football at Anfield after losing his place at Barcelona.
At £34 million, Balde would represent a potentially shrewd investment for Liverpool given his distribution quality and ability to contribute in the final third.