Liverpool are reportedly closing in on a deal for Real Betis centre-back Aissa Mandi.

The 28-year-old played a key role in the heart of the Betis defence during the 2019-20 campaign, making 30 appearances across all competitions for the La Liga outfit.

However, Mandi's current deal with Betis is set to expire at the end of next season, and the defender is supposedly seeking pastures new ahead of the 2020-21 campaign.

According to beIN SPORTS, Liverpool have had a bid of £9m for Mandi accepted by Betis, and the Algeria international is expected to join up with the Premier League champions soon.

The report claims that Jurgen Klopp is keen to add defensive reinforcements to his side after Dejan Lovren's recent departure to Zenit St Petersburg.

However, should a deal for Mandi fail to materialise, Newcastle United are believed to be ready and waiting to pounce for the versatile defender.