Joel Matip is reportedly preparing to depart Liverpool in the summer

Joel Matip, the 32-year-old was forced off against Fulham in December due to injury, with manager Jurgen Klopp later confirming that the centre-back had sustained a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament.

While Matip has made notable progress in his rehabilitation in recent weeks, including returning to light training at Liverpool's AXA Training Centre, it appears that the season will conclude before the defender can make a return to action.

The Cameroonian, who has the advantage of holding an EU passport, has only played 14 games for the Reds this season, and his contract is set to expire in June.

Therefore, perhaps unsurprisingly, the prospect of acquiring the experienced central defender without the need for a transfer fee has sparked interest from several clubs, including two in Serie A.

According to Italian outlet Corriere della Sera via The Mirror, both Roma and Lazio are preparing to enter into discussions with Matip in the upcoming weeks about a possible move in the summer.

The report adds that the defender is open to the idea of moving to Rome but is wary of the potential pay cut he would have to accept if he left Anfield.

Matip's agents are believed to have also opened discussions of a possible move with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, while clubs from Saudi Arabia have also shown interest in acquiring his services.

Liverpool have been linked with several potential replacements for Matip in recent weeks, including Sporting Lisbon defensive duo Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio.