There is likely to be a lot of activity in the Dortmund defence this summer. As for potential new signings, one avenue leads to the Premier League.

The race for Bournemouth’s defensive lynchpin Marcos Senesi is reaching fever pitch as the Argentine international approaches the final months of his contract. While the Cherries have benefited from his rugged performances in the Premier League, the 28-year-old appears increasingly likely to seek a new challenge as a free agent this summer. With his contract set to expire, Senesi has become one of the most coveted cut-price options on the market, attracting interest from across Europe’s top five leagues.

Liverpool are in a mess all of their own making. The Reds knew that they were short on senior centre-backs last summer and had ample time to address the problem before the close of the transfer window - yet they waited until deadline day to finalise a move for Marc Guehi. So, when Crystal Palace pulled the plug on the deal at the 11th hour, Liverpool were left in the very, very precarious position of needing Ibrahima Konate to continue performing at a high level, Joe Gomez to stay fit and teenage summer signing Giovanni Leoni to make an immediate impact at Anfield.

Chelsea are reportedly ready to back new head coach Liam Rosenior by making up to three signings in the January transfer window. The Blues are looking to strengthen in a number of areas in a major show of support for their manager, who replaced Enzo Maresca in the Stamford Bridge dugout earlier this month following the Italian’s departure on New Year’s Day.