Liverpool to complete Joel Matip signing as Schalke confirm Cameroon defender will leave this summer

Jurgen Klopp has begun repairing Liverpool's suspect defence by landing Schalke's Joel Matip on a Bosman signing.

Matip, 24, will join Liverpool on July 1 on a free transfer after being identified as the man to help shore up the Reds' leaky backline.

Schalke confirmed the move on Monday afternoon, with general manager Horst Heldt declaring: "His decision is nothing against Schalke. He wants to try something new."

Matip added: "I have always said that I would only bid goodbye to Schalke to experience something fundamentally new," Matip told Schalke's official website . "That's why I never considered a switch within the Bundesliga.

"And even though the decision was definitely not easy, I am convinced that now is the time to make the next step.

"Schalke 04 will always remain a big family to me. I was proud to play for this club. I will give it my all in the upcoming months to get the best results from this season. That's what I owe the fans and the team."

Klopp knows the German-born Matip well from his time with Schalke and he has been an ever present for the Bundesliga side this season.

It is understood the 6ft 4ins centre-half has agreed a four-year deal with Liverpool and becomes Klopp's second signing, following Red Star Belgrade midfielder Marko Grujic.

Matip hasn't missed a minute of action in the Bundesliga for Schalke so far this season.

Mirror UK