Liverpool cult hero in talks with Bournemouth as Cherries line up Lloyd Kelly replacement

Bournemouth have held recent discussions with Joel Matip, who is seeking a new club with his Liverpool contract officially expiring on June 30, Anfield Watch understands. 

The Cameroon international endured a serious injury last season, which raised doubts about his prospects of finding a new club. 

But the veteran defender is very much admired by Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, who is keen to bring in the experienced central defender to replace the Newcastle-bound Lloyd Kelly, who was also a transfer target for the Reds. 

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There have also been reports that newly-promoted Southampton are interested in the player, however, our sources indicate that this is not true at this time. 

Last month, Liverpool officially announced that the 32-year-old would be leaving the club this summer following eight years of remarkable service. 

Liverpool opt against Matip renewal

The centre back joined the Reds in 2016 on a free transfer from Schalke and would go on to become a cult hero, lifting the Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup during his stay on Merseyside, as well as multiple runners-up finishes. 

Liverpool decided against renewing his deal - although former head coach Jurgen Klopp reportedly would have triggered an extension. 

The German also paid tribute to one of his first Liverpool signings and a player he often relied on to be a rock at the heart of the defence. 

"In all the years that I have been involved in football, I am not sure I have come across too many players who are more loved than Joel Matip. I’m not even sure it would be possible to say anything bad about him," said Klopp. 

Bournemouth v Swansea City Emirates FA Cup Lloyd Kelly of Bournemouth celebrates scoring during the Emirates FA Cup Fourth Round match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth Copyright: xJeremyxLandeyx FIL-19565-0117

Now talks are underway between the Cherries and Matip over a possible move to the south coast club. Matip had been in great form for the Reds up until his season-ending ACL injury against Fulham in early December.

Matip will leave the club alongside midfielder Thiago with the Reds now seeking options in defence and midfield to replace them.

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