Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Reds Tracking Superstar German International

Liverpool Football Club's defense was beyond stellar this season. With just 40 goals conceded in 38 games, it was good for third best in the Premier League, despite the club's eighth-place finish.

That said, there is always room for improvement, and, according to talkSPORT, Reds manager Brendan Rodgers might look to add to his defense with signing Schalke 04 and German Euro 2012 star Benedikt Howedes.

The news of Liverpool's interest in Howedes comes simultaneous with the news from the Daily Mail that mega-rich Russian powerhouse Anzhi Makhachkala are after Martin Skrtel.

Now, considering the uncertainty of the star defender's future, this could be the perfect time for the Reds to make a move for Howedes.

A clever 24-year-old central defender who excels in his movement, tackling and aerial ability, the 6'2" Howedes has captained his Schalke side for the past season. Having come through the Gelsenkirchen club's youth system, Howedes has made a total of 165 appearances for the club.

Convincing him to leave the promise of Champions League football for the Premier League and Europa League play might be a challenge for Rodgers, but if he were to succeed, the move would greatly help the Reds' title hopes.

Howedes is one of Europe's brightest talents on the defensive line, and the securing of his services would only serve to improve the already-strong Liverpool defense.

He would likely cost around £15 million. 

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