Liverpool have already signed Kolo Toure this close-season, but Rodgers confirmed on Thursday that Sebastian Coates will miss much of the season with a knee injury. 

And the Northern Irishman wants a further addition that will not only improve the strength of his first-team squad, but also enable him to send younger defenders out on loan.

Asked about centre-backs, Rodgers said: "It's something that we're looking at, certainly, a player to come in in that position.

"It's to strengthen the squad but also to allow some of our younger players to develop."

Among the defenders he is keen to send out on loan is Andre Wisdom, with the 20-year-old having only made 19 appearances for the club since September. 

"For us to maximise Andre Wisdom and his talent, I need to get him some games," Rodgers said.

"The idea is to get him out on loan but I can only do that if we bring in someone with a bit more experience to come in and support the group."

Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Anzhi Makhachkala's attacking midfielder Willian, who now appears destined to sign for Tottenham.

While not mentioning the Brazil international by name, Rodgers said he remains hopeful of adding further players to his squad before the window shuts on September 2.

"We've done some business early on in the window, which was very good," he said. 

"Now if we can finish off in these remaining days and get some players in that can help us, it would end a very good window for us."

"We've got 11 days to go, we have to do everything we possibly can."