Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing 19-year-old Colombian defender Kevin Mantilla from Independiente Santa Fe.

According to a report from Football Insider, Liverpool have now opened preliminary talks to sign the talented young Colombian defender after being impressed with his performances at the South American Under-20 Championships.

The 19-year-old was outstanding in the South American under-20 championship. And his performances have caught the attention of a number of clubs. Apparently, Liverpool scouts were in attendance at the tournament, which finished last week. And the Reds have been urged to make a move for him.

The 19-year-old is highly rated in South America, and he has a big future ahead of him. Liverpool could certainly use defensive reinforcements. And Mantilla could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for them.

Players like Joe Gomez and Joel Matip could be on their way out of Liverpool soon. While Matip has regressed significantly, Gomez has clearly not been the same player he was before his injury problems. Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk are the only reliable defenders at the club right now. And Jurgen Klopp will need to bring in quality young defenders in the coming months.

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The Colombian sensation could prove to be a useful addition. But Liverpool will have to face competition from other Premier League clubs as well. Meanwhile, the Premier League giants have held a meeting with the defender’s club Independiente Santa Fe as they lay the groundwork for a potential summer move.

It remains to be seen whether they can agree on a fee with Independiente Santa Fe in the coming months now. Liverpool certainly have the financial muscle to tempt Santa Fe into selling their prized young prospect at the end of the season.

Furthermore, Liverpool have a reputation for nurturing talented young players into established stars. And the Colombian defender will fancy his chances of fulfilling his potential under a world-class coach like Jurgen Klopp.

The 19-year-old is unlikely to be a starter for Liverpool right away. But he could be a useful squad player for them and force his way into the starting lineup in the coming seasons. Meanwhile, the Reds have shown interest in other South American prodigies, including Kendry Paez.

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