Two Premier League sides monitoring Liverpool defender

Holders Liverpool begin their defence of the Carabao Cup when they host Premier League rivals West Ham United on Wednesday evening. 

Arne Slot’s impressive start to life in charge of the Reds continued on Saturday when his side beat Bournemouth 3-0 at Anfield.

A brace from Luis Diaz and a Darwin Nunez goal earned the Reds an important three points against the Cherries; a result that moves Slot’s side into second place in the Premier League table.

Now, though, it appears that two Premier League clubs are chasing one of Liverpool’s defenders.

According to Football Insider, both Aston Villa and Newcastle United are monitoring Liverpool defender Joe Gomez.

Gomez was part of the England squad for the Euros earlier this summer but didn’t feature in Germany

The England international hasn’t featured for the Reds in the Premier League so far this season, with his only appearance coming as a substitute in Liverpool’s win over AC Milan in the Champions League.

Naturally a central defender, Gomez was often used at both right-back and left-back under former Reds boss Jurgen Klopp, but he has fallen out of favour since Slot’s arrival.

The 27-year-old has just under three years remaining on his current contract with the Merseyside outfit, but the report claims that he was the subject of interest from several clubs – including Villa and Newcastle – during the recent transfer window.

Gomez was said to have informed the club that he wanted to leave if an appropriate offer was made, but he ultimately stayed put at Anfield and he is expected to make his first start of the season against the Hammers on Wednesday.

Gomez joined Liverpool from Football League side Charlton Athletic in 2015 and he has now played 225 times for the club across all competitions.

During his time on Merseyside, Gomez has lifted eight trophies including the Champions League and the Premier League.