Premier League giants Liverpool are keen on roping in the services of German defender Jonas Hector this summer, despite interests from League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Hector plays for Bundesliga side Koln and is currently on International duty at Euro 2016 with Germany gearing up for the high-octane semi-final against hosts France.
In a nail-biting quarter-final against Italy, Hector scored the winning penalty after his side failed to break the 1-1 deadlock in extra-time. Germany ended the jinx as they outplayed Italy 6-5 on penalties to secure a spot in the semi-finals.
The 26-year-old defender has been a potential target of several top fight clubs which includes Premier League side Liverpool and Bundesliga club Wolfsburg. Recent media reports also claim that Tottenham Hotspur have joined the race for Hector after his recent performance in the European Championships. Critics believe that Spurs have an upper hand in the battle for Hector as they can offer Champions League football this summer.
Looking at the past season and also the defender’s recent performance in Euro 2016, it is obvious that there has been a rise in his market value. Fotttheball sources confirm that his current market value is in the region of £17m. Koln manager Peter Stoeger asserted that he is not surprised by the sudden upsurge in his value in addition to the interest shown by top-flight European clubs. Peter accentuated that he always knew that Hector would evolve into a first class player.
“He is now perhaps more in focus, but those who know him always knew in advance that he is a good player,” Peter said.
Hector bagged 34 appearances in all competitions for Koln last season and after his impressive performance in the international circuit, Hector has managed to secure a permanent place as a left-back in the national team.
Both Liverpool and Tottenham has been busy this summer with confirmed signings on board. Liverpool have already signed Sadio Mane for £34m and also secured the signature of Schalke defender and free agent Joel Matip. Earlier last month Tottenham Hotspur have signed Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama.
Foottheball understands that Liverpool can offer more game time to Hector as Alberto Moreno stands doubtful in the left-back position after a disappointing last season. Tottenham Hotspur may have the Champions League card to play but Dany Rose already establishing himself as permanent figure in the left-back position can force Hector to think twice before making a move.