Portuguese newspaper O Jogo understands that Liverpool have made an official bid for Sporting Lisbon defender Tiago Ilori.

It is no secret the Reds are searching for a new centre-back, but while they are looking for someone who could slot right into the starting line-up, the club officials are also planning for the future.

According to O Jogo, Liverpool have offered €4.2 million for Sporting Lisbon stopper Tiago Ilori, while offering another €800,000 in performance related bonuses.

The Lions seem to be holding out for €7 million, but they are prepared to negotiate a transfer fee with the Premier League club.

The 20-year-old defender has only made 12 Primeira Liga appearances for Sporting after coming through the club's youth academy, but he seems to have done enough to impress the visiting scouts.

Due to club's difficult financial situation, Sporting chiefs have no choice but to accept a sizeable offer for any of their players.

Source: SoccerNews.com