5 players Liverpool must sign this summer

#4 Stefan de Vrij, SS Lazio

Double Dutch at the back

After the goalkeeper position, the next compulsory addition to the squad is another defender. Virgil van Dijk's arrival as the costliest defender ever at £75 million has definitely made the team better. The inconsistent Dejan Lovren looks much more composed beside the Dutchman as Van Dijk's skill and leadership is bringing about a calmness in the backline.

Now, adding another quality centre-back should be a priority in the summer. Joel Matip along with Lovren are yet to convince while Ragnar Klavan is on the wrong side of 30 and can be considered to be a squad player at best. The young Joe Gomez has some way to go before becoming a first-choice defender for Klopp.

Thus, Van Dijk's absence due to injury or suspensions could once again derail the defensive organization. Klopp would surely be looking out for a centre-back, preferably on the cheap, as money is needed to strengthen other areas. Stefan de Vrij ticks all the boxes - consistently good for Lazio and is a free agent in the summer. Further, the 26-year old could form a better partnership with Van Dijk due to their Dutch connection.

De Vrij has been ever-present in Lazio's backline since the beginning of last season and has openly stated that he is set to leave the Serie A side in the summer. Given his quality, he has been linked to the likes of Inter Milan, Barcelona, Manchester United and Liverpool. Hence, for the Reds to get the player, they need to fend off competition.

If Klopp manages to secure De Vrij's signature, it will strengthen the defence while not burning a hole in Liverpool's pockets.