Liverpool make their move to sign Spain Under-21 full-back Martin Montoya from Barcelona in January

With José Enrique ruled out until February, Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is keen to sign a replacement and has opened talls with Barcelona over Montoya.

Anfield target: Liverpool have opened talks with Barcelona over signing defender Martin Montoya in January Photo: GETTY IMAGES

Liverpool have opened talks with Barcelona full-back Martin Montoya in the hope of securing a transfer in January.

The Spain Under-21 international can play at left-back or right-back and is out of contract at the end of the season.

He could leave the Nou Camp on a free transfer in the summer, but Liverpool are keen on a new-year deal.

Montoya, 22, is behind Dani Alves in the pecking order at the Spanish champions and Liverpool are one of several clubs tracking him. Ian Ayre, the Liverpool managing director, travelled to Barcelona this week in an effort to secure an earlier move.

Liverpool’s hunt for a new full-back is well documented. José Enrique will be missing through injury until February, and on-loan Valencia defender Aly Cissokho has already fallen out of favour following an unimpressive series of games.