Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp showed interest in Mainz midfielder Jean-Philippe Gbamin

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has previously been in touch with his ex-club Mainz over the availability of  Jean-Philippe Gbamin, according to reports. 

The 23-year-old is a key player for the Bundesliga club and played 33 matches in all competitions last term.

But his representative, Bernard Collignon, exclusively told Fussball Transfers that the current European champions were interested in taking the player to England.

“In January 2018 Klopp called Mainz and wanted to commit him as a centre-back, who also helps out in midfield,” said Collignon.

“But Mainz did not want to let him go in the middle of the relegation battle. In the summer, Liverpool signed on Fabinho.”

Jean-Philippe Gbamin has been tipped to move on from Mainz.

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The Ivory Coast international, who is currently on Africa Cup of Nations duty with his country, can play as a centre-back, defensive and central midfielder.

And Collignon added that the Anfield side are not the only Premier League outfit to have contacted him to enquire about Gbamin.

“I had meetings with Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, Everton and many other clubs. He is on the shortlist. However, not as a top candidate, because his exact position is unclear. “

Gbamin moved from Lens to Mainz in 2016 and has since played 95 times for the German outfit.