Stoke City interested in Mamadou Sakho

Stoke City have began talks with Liverpool over a season-long loan agreement for French defender Mamadou Sakho. Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is open to a temporary deal following the player's disappointing behaviour in pre-season.

Sakho was suspended through a drugs ban in the back end of the previous campaign, whilst he is currently on the treatment table for a heel injury.

According to The Telegraph, the centre-back is free to leave Anfield on a temporary basis this term in a bid to regain his form and fitness.

The Potters have already held negotiations with the Merseyside outfit, and a move is likely to go through. provided Mark Hughes' side are willing to pay Sakho's wages in full.

The 26-year-old joined Liverpool from Paris Saint-Germain in 2013, and has since racked 79 appearances in all competitions.