Liverpool make Bundesliga defender their first summer signing

Liverpool might have romped to a 6-0 win at Aston Villa, but many fans will agree their defence could still use some improvement.

So they'll be delighted with the news that one of the Bundesliga's top defensive talents is on his way to Anfield. Jurgen Klopp's side will welcome Schalke defender Joel Matip on a free transfer when his contract expires in the summer, the Bundesliga outfit have confirmed.  

"I have always said that I would say farewell to Schalke for only one reason: to get to know something new," Matip told the club's official site. "A change within the Bundesliga never came into consideration for me," he added. "Although my decision is definitely not easy, I am convinced that now is the right time to take this step."

Cameroon international Matip, who was born in Germany, has spent his entire career with the Gelsenkirchen club. He has formed an envied defensive partnership with Arsenal target Benedikt Howedes, and will likely become Jurgen Klopp's first Bundesliga recruit since taking over at Anfield. Matip, who can also play as a holding midfielder, has more than 200 games under his belt at the age of just 24, and was part of the team that took on Manchester United in the 2010/11 Champions League semi-finals.