Joel Matip remains in the Premier League with two clubs in the transfer battle for the former Liverpool star

JOEL MATIP will remain in the Premier League with two south coast clubs vying for his services.

The defender, 32, waved goodbye to Liverpool fans this weekend after eight years at Anfield.

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Matip was one of them Jurgen Klopp's first signing when he arrived as a free agent after a spell at Schalke 04.

And he played a key role under the German in securing a number of trophies for the club over the next eight seasons.

Matip helped Liverpool to end their three-decade wait to become champions when they won the Premier League in 2020 – twelve months after winning the Champions League.

But the Cameroon international suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Fulham in December, which has kept him sidelined ever since.

However, he is high on the list of one of the Premier League rivals Bournemouth after it was announced that he was leaving Liverpool as a free agent once his contract expires next month.

Andoni Iraola has identified the player as a top transfer target and believes he can help take his Cherries side to the next level.

In the meantime Southampton – who face Leeds in the Championship play-off final at Wembley looking for a place back in the Premier League this weekend – keeping an eye on Matip too.

And they will hope to convince him to sign if Russell Martin can lead his team to an immediate return to the top flight on Sunday.

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Interest from abroad is likely to be high as Sun Sport understands clubs in Spain and Germany are also monitoring the star's situation.

Confirming his departure from Anfield, Matip, who leaves with 201 appearances, 11 goals and seven winners' medals to his name, said: “It's been eight wonderful years here in Liverpool.

“I was able to be part of an exciting history with a great coach and a great team in a special club. We have great titles and the best fans in the world.

“I am full of gratitude for the wonderful time I have had with these unique people who support the club and the fans who love Liverpool FC.

“My wife and I have felt welcome and supported from day one and together with the children we have had the best time imaginable.

“We will always keep it in special memories.”

Liverpool are on the hunt for several new signings this summer to bridge the gap between themselves and title winners Manchester City.

A central defender will be on the priority list new Reds boss Arne Slot.

And Eintracht Frankfurt's Willian Pacho is a name considered as a possible option.