"?River Plate President Rodolfo D'Onofrio has told "?Fox Sports that Jurgen Klopp is interested in bringing Gabriel Mercado to Anfield.
Mercado, who is currently on international duty at the Copa America with Argentina, is reportedly being followed closely by the Liverpool boss. Klopp was spotted last week attending the clash between Mercado's Argentina and Chile in which the defender scored.
Meanwhile, River Plate President D'Onofrio has spoken about Klopp's admiration for the 28-year-old stating that "he (Klopp) likes him".
With Kolo Toure's release from the Merseyside club and Martin Skrtel being linked with a move away from Anfield, the German will be looking to add to his back line ahead of the 2016-17 season.
Mercado began his career with Racing Club before joining Estudiantes and then River, operating primarily a right-back. However his versatility and ability to play across the back line and in midfield too makes him a valuable asset.
Having recently broken into the national team, Mercado has made 87 appearances for River over a four-year period and would bring a wealth of playing experience to Liverpool.
However any transfer depends on the defender receiving a work permit. President D'Onofrio touched on the subject saying that "for Mercado to go to England, Argentina need to be champions" going on to state that Argentina's progression in the Copa America is imperative for Mercado to fulfill the requirements and "winning a title with the national team would allow him to play in England."
Liverpool may now keep a close eye on La Albiceleste's results at this summer's tournament in North America before making a decision on the defender.