Joel Matip to Liverpool: Reds bid for Schalke defender - reports

The Reds have conceded 32 goals in 23 Premier League matches this season, the most in the top half

Schalke 04 defender Joel Matip (Getty Images)

Liverpool have reportedly submitted a bid to sign Schalke defender Joël Matip.

The 24-year-old has been on Jurgen Klopp’s wishlist since his days with Borussia Dortmund, where he won the Bundesliga title twice, and now the Reds manager had made his move.

Matip, an industrious defender with 27 caps for Cameroon, is believed to have informed the German outfit of his desire to leave for Anfield with his contract set to expire at the end of the season.

According to Sky Sports, Liverpool have followed through on their interest with a firm financial package rather than wait until the summer when they can get their man for a lower price.

The centre-back would likely go straight into Klopp's defence, which has conceded 32 goals in 23 Premier League matches this season.

Meanwhile, the German is optimistic about his side's chances in the Capital One Cup final, to be played against either Manchester City or Merseyside rivals Everton, after defeating Stoke on penalties in the semi-final last night.

“Hopefully it will be a really good night in London,” Klopp said. “I saw it in the face of my players, but we should not talk about it because it is only an opportunity to win.

“If you win, everybody remembers in 200 years, but if you lose, a few weeks later it is forgotten. It is about playing the game, it’s not important what it means to you four weeks from now.”