Liverpool have stepped up their efforts to bring Barcelona defender Martin Montoya to the club in January.
According to the Daily Post, Reds’ managing director Ian Ayre flew to Spain this week to open negotiations for the 22-year-old, who has made just six La Liga appearances for Tata Martino’s team this term and grown increasingly frustrated over his lack of first-team opportunities.
The Spain Under-21 international is nominally a right-back but can also operate on the opposite flank, a versatility that appeals to boss Brendan Rodgers who has seen left-back Jose Enrique ruled out until February and understudy Ali Cissokho having disappointed since his loan move from Valencia.
Montoya is out of contract at the end of the season and recent talks over a new deal at the Camp Nou were put on hold.
As a result, Barca may well decide to cash in now on a player who came through the club’s youth system rather than let him leave for nothing come the summer.
