After rumors circulated in late December about Liverpool’s interest in signing a defender, CA Talleres president Andrés Fassi confirmed the club’s pursuit of the player.

The 61-year-old mentioned to La Voz, “It’s true, they have been following him for four months now. They even wanted to know about his medical history, so we told them.”

So, who is Kevin Mantilla?

As Jurgen Klopp searches for a replacement center-back due to Joel Matip’s ACL tear and with Matip’s contract expiring in less than six months, Kevin Mantilla has joined Liverpool’s growing transfer wish list. Standing at an impressive height of 1.91 meters and at just 20 years old, Mantilla possesses the physical attributes necessary for the Premier League.

Although his representation with Alinea ends on December 31, 2027, his contract with CA Talleres does not. Players from Colombia, such as Anderson Arroyo and David Ospina, are mostly represented by them.

Why is Liverpool interested?

With Matip’s injuries and contract status, Liverpool needs to find a suitable successor, and Mantilla seems to fit the bill.

Mantilla’s playing style aligns well with Klopp’s preferences. Similar to Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, he excels in one-on-one tackles, can thwart counterattacks, and brings an imposing aerial presence.

However, he takes risks with challenges that might be deemed unacceptable in the Premier League.

Liverpool typically doesn’t rush new signings into the starting lineup until they are prepared for the challenges of the English Premier League, as seen with examples like Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo. While Endo has settled into his role, Gravenberch is still adapting to the demands of the Premier League.