Liverpool's Brazil international expected to arrive in Istanbul today ahead of transfer

Cesc Fabregas

Liverpool’s Brazilian international midfielder Lucas Leiva is expected to arrive in Istanbul today to complete his move to Galatasaray according to Fanatik.

The daily sports paper states that the Istanbul Giants have struck a deal with both Liverpool and Lucas and will sign him on a permanent deal. NTV Spor report that Galatasaray have offered €3 million for the services of the 29-year-old.

However, The Liverpool Echo state that Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has temporarily blocked the transfer of Lucas Leiva until defensive cover is found.

The German tactician is currently facing a defensive crisis with Mamadou Sakho, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip all sidelined. Lucas is a central midfielder but he offers Klopp an additional defensive option and filled in at centre-back at times last season.

Lucas is currently out injured with a hamstring strain but should return to training over the next two weeks.

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