CA Talleres president Andrés Fassi confirmed the team’s interest in signing the defender, following speculations that surfaced in late December suggesting Liverpool was interested in signing the player.

According to La Voz, the 61-year-old said, “It’s true, they have been following him for four months now.” We even told them about his medical background because they were curious.

Who is Kevin Mantilla?

With Joel Matip’s ACL tear, Jurgen Klopp is looking for a replacement center-back, and Mantilla is the newest player to join Liverpool’s long list of transfer targets.

The Cameroonian’s contract is about to expire in less than six months, thus the Reds are actively pursuing Mantilla as a possible transfer target. A successor is desperately needed.

The center defender is only 20 years old, despite his remarkable height of 1.91 meters. Mantilla possesses the physical attributes required to withstand the demands of the Premier League.

His contract with CA Talleres expires on December 31, 2027, although his representation with Alinea does not. They usually represent players from Colombia, such as David Ospina and Anderson Arroyo.

Why is Liverpool interested in this?

Liverpool has to find a worthy replacement for Matip given his injuries and contract situation.

Klopp is a wonderful fit for his style of play.

Similar to Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk, Mantilla is skilled in one-on-one challenges and has little trouble stopping counterattacks.

Although his aerial presence is a big plus, his interceptions and tackling are what make him stand out. Mantilla utilizes his massive body to stop blows and crosses with such skill that it seems as though his life depends on it.

However, he frequently takes chances on challenges that the Premier League would not approve.

Liverpool waits to insert new players into the starting lineup until they are ready for the English Premier League’s demands.

Two outstanding examples of this are Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenberch. Although the latter has become comfortable in his role at Liverpool, Gravenberch is still getting his feet wet in the Premier League and still learning the ropes.

When could Liverpool be able to get Mantilla?

It is feasible to agree to a summer deal with CA Talleres, but this is only speculation.

Due to his lack of recognition and the level of competition he plays in, Liverpool might also be able to work out a cheap transfer fee.

Even though it carries some risk to add players without prior European experience, Klopp is the coach who can maximize Mantilla’s potential.