Liverpool Transfer News: Martin Caceres Deal 'Close,' Latest Rumours

Liverpool are reportedly "close" to agreeing to a summer move for Juventus defender Martin Caceres when his contract with the Bianconeri expires.

According to Italian outlet Calciomercato (h/t Metro's George Bellshaw), the Uruguayan is out of contract in the summer and is now free to negotiate a pre-agreement elsewhere, with the Red believed to be set to win the race for his signature.

The 28-year-old has proven himself a strong and capable defender in Italy but has seen his career hampered by injuries. He's only made over 20 appearances in a league campaign on just two occasions since arriving in Europe in 2007, the last time being in the 2010-11 campaign—though playing behind Italy's three best centre-backs has also limited his opportunities in Turin.

The defender has made just four appearances in all competitions for the Old Lady this season after being suspended for an alleged drink-driving incident in September.

Despite his absences, Italian football expert David Amoyal believes his ability and versatility make him worth the risk on a free transfer:

Indeed, should the Reds suffer an injury crisis next season similar to the one they are currently enduring, Cacere's ability to play competently across the back four would really come in handy—provided he's actually able to stay fit himself, of course.

He would also be arguably Liverpool's best centre-back option upon joining, so for free he might just be worth punting for, provided the club doesn't simply rest on their laurels—further recruitment would still likely be needed and like injury-prone forward Daniel Sturridge, he would best be treated as a bonus who could occasionally offer a boost to the team when available.

Of course, with the frustration Sturridge already provides thanks to his constant absences and though Caceres isn't quite as injury-prone as the England international, Liverpool fans might have already had enough of that with him.

Lionel Cironneau/Associated Press

The Reds have also been linked with Anderlecht midfielder Dennis Praet, per journalist Kristof Terreur:

The 21-year-old is one of the most promising young talents operating in Belgian football and is enjoying a strong season having netted four goals and assisted six in all competitions—putting him on course to at least equal last year's solid haul of nine and 11, respectively.

However, as Praet notes the reported fees involved make the story difficult to believe, particularly as Liverpool are fairly well-stocked in his position:

There also remains a big question over whether Praet is ready to make the significant step up to English football. Unless Liverpool have scouted the youngster extensively and believe he can do so, they're not likely to gamble on him and especially not for the amount of money noted.