• Premier League

Liverpool targeting Moreno to solve left-back crisis

Alberto Moreno (left) helped Sevilla win the Europa League © Getty Images

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Liverpool are interested in a deal for Sevilla left-back Alberto Moreno as manager Brendan Rodgers looks to strengthen his defence, sources have told ESPN.

The 21-year-old was part of the Sevilla team who won the Europa League in Turin on Wednesday night by beating Benfica 4-2 on penalties after a 0-0 draw and could command a fee of around £15 million.

Rodgers is keen to bolster his defence after lapses against Chelsea and Crystal Palace ultimately cost his side the Premier League title.

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The manager is preparing for a summer clearout in order to raise additional funds for the club's transfer kitty, with which he plans to strengthen his side with "five or six" players.

Left-back has been a problem position for Liverpool this season, with first choice Jose Enrique out of action from November onwards as he recovered from knee surgery.

Jon Flanagan, primarily a right-back, became the regular stand-in on the left - with Enrique returning to training in the spring and expected to be fit for pre-season - but is more likely to figure regularly in his natural position in the long term.

Aly Cissokho failed to impress at left-back when given a chance and has returned to Valencia following the end of his season-long loan spell.

Rodgers has stated that improving the club's defensive record, particularly away from home, has become a priority after they finished runners-up to Manchester City.

His side have gained a reputation for attacking football, having scored 101 league goals during the season, one fewer than the champions.

But they conceded 50 league goals - 13 more than City - and of the teams who finished outside the relegation zone, only Stoke City and Sunderland let in more on their travels.

Liverpool, meanwhile, are continuing to discuss a deal with Southampton to sign midfielder Adam Lallana, and are considering a move for Cardiff central defender Steven Caulker in a bid to shore up their defence.

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