Liverpool close in on £3.5m signing of Charlton defender Joe Gomez

Liverpool are reportedly set to complete their fourth summer signing after agreeing a deal with Charlton Athletic for defender Joe Gomez.

According to the Guardian, the young defender is set to undergo his medical with the Reds on Friday, with the deal set to be completed in the coming days.

Brendan Rodgers has been busy this summer, and has already completed three signings with James Milner, Danny Ings and Adam Bogdan arriving at Anfield while they have also released four players including Steven Gerrard, who has departed the club to play in the MLS in the US.

Gomez has been impressive for the Championship club making 24 appearances in all competitions last season. The 18-year-old defender, who is primarily a centre-back can also operate in either of the full-back positions making him an attractive proposition for interested clubs.

Apart from the Merseyside club, Arsenal have also been long-term admirers of the defender, with reports suggesting that Arsene Wenger was keen on signing him from Charlton.

Liverpool have reportedly triggered the £3.5m ($5.5m) release clause in the player's contract and he will now arrive for formal discussions with club officials with the move set to be announced in the next few days.

Gomez's arrival could signal the end of Sebastian Coates' time at Anfield with the defender poised to complete a permanent move to Sunderland, with whom he spent the entire 2014/15 season on loan.

The Northern Irishman is keen on strengthening his defence and has also targeted a move for Nathaniel Clyne. The Reds' first bid was turned down by Southampton, but the club are reportedly set to go in with an improved offer to beat rivals Manchester United to his signature.