Football
Glenn Price, Liverpool correspondent 7y

Klopp's top left-back targets: Mendy, Sessegnon ideal for Liverpool

Liverpool are adding to their options in the final third this summer, with Roma winger Mohamed Salah close to joining Dominic Solanke as the Reds' second signing of the window. However, the links to securing a left-back are few and far between.

Jurgen Klopp's took most by surprise last summer when he opted to use James Milner at left-back but the 31-year-old duly impressed in an unfamiliar position.

For the most part, the left-sided full-backs touted with Liverpool have been of the calibre to serve as understudy to Milner, instead of regular starter -- suggesting the Reds believe they have more pressing concerns to solve throughout their squad.

ESPN FC ranks the left-back options so far ...

1. Benjamin Mendy

Mendy is the clear outlier to Liverpool's reported left-back targets. Liverpool are among a host of European heavyweights interested in the Monaco full-back. Sources told ESPN FC last month the Merseyside club were ready to rival Manchester City for Mendy, although Pep Guardiola was favourite to land the player.

There is no doubt Mendy could improve Klopp's team, and would, in all likelihood, force vice-captain Milner out of the starting lineup. While Milner excelled last season, there were times when he struggled and looked like a midfielder forced to play in an uncomfortable role.

2. Kieran Tierney

Tierney was one of the standout performers in Celtic's record-breaking campaign last term, with the 20-year-old making 40 appearances in all competitions, including three in the Champions League. The Scotland international has the ability to play a role for Liverpool next season. He would be a more than suitable back-up to Milner, but still given regular opportunities due to Liverpool's busier schedule.

"I would expect the very biggest clubs, in the most competitive leagues, to be interested in him because he is a huge talent," Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers said. "He will only get better."

Getting Tierney to leave his boyhood Celtic may prove difficult. The defender insists he is happy at the club and signed a five-year contract last June.

3. Ryan Sessegnon

Liverpool are extremely keen on one of England's most exciting prospects, but have begun to pursue other left-back targets due to his reported reluctance to leave London.

Sessegnon, 17, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with Fulham in the Championship last season, making 30 appearances in all competitions. It would be wrong to expect a teenager to hold down the left-back slot for a club like Liverpool, but Sessegnon is one for the future and would be an extremely wise investment.

4. Andrew Robertson

If Liverpool are looking for a dependable option to play second fiddle to Milner without breaking the bank, Robertson fits that bill. The Scotland international is expected to depart Hull City this summer after their relegation from the Premier League. At 23, Robertson is still at an age where could improve by working under Klopp on a daily basis.

5. Gael Clichy

Clichy has been linked with a move to Anfield following his release from Manchester City. The Frenchman massively struggled in his final 12 months at the Etihad, which should perhaps put Liverpool off a move for the 31-year-old. Liverpool were interested in Clichy before he moved to City in 2011, but going in for him again would be unwise.

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