West Ham in stunning move for Champions League-winning former Liverpool star Klopp called ‘outstanding’

West Ham United have made former Liverpool star Joel Matip their No 1 target to strengthen the defence after the transfer window shut and are stepping up their pursuit of him, it has been revealed.

Matip joined Liverpool on a free transfer in July 2016 and proved to be a fantastic signing during his eight-year spell at Anfield. The centre-back made 201 appearances for the Reds in all competitions, chipping in with 11 goals and helping the club win major trophies such as the Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup.

Matip became a fan favourite on Merseyside due to the marauding runs he would make from the heart of defence, which would in turn kickstart Liverpool attacks.

The defender only played 14 times during his last season at Liverpool due to an ACL injury, and club chiefs opted against extending his contract.

Matip has therefore been a free agent since July 1. Over the last month, the ex-Cameroon international has been linked with a shock move to Everton, while Bayer Leverkusen were interested in him in case they lost Jonathan Tah.

Neither of those transfers materialised though, and Matip could now head elsewhere. Two days ago, trusted West Ham source ExWHUEmployee revealed that Julen Lopetegui’s side hold interest in capturing Matip.