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One centre-back has expressed his eagerness to join Liverpool.

After Richard Hughes was unable to secure Marc Guehi during last summer’s transfer window, many believed this oversight could haunt Liverpool in the long run.

Supporters voiced concerns over the club’s defensive strengthening, especially after the departure of Jarell Quansah. Their fears were validated as Liverpool concluded the season in a disappointing fifth place.

The significant injury sustained by Giovanni Leoni further highlighted the weaknesses in Liverpool’s defensive depth.

The club’s failure to revisit the possibility of acquiring Guehi in January added to the disappointment, especially as Manchester City stepped in to finalize the deal, bolstering a rival side that has gained momentum.

While Liverpool did acquire Jeremy Jacquet as a promising long-term investment, he won’t be able to contribute immediately due to his prolonged absence from injury this season.

Jacquet, despite his potential, isn’t seen as ready to lead the defensive line for years to come. The aim is for him and Leoni to become foundational figures in Liverpool’s defense.

Nonetheless, based solely on Leoni and Jacquet would leave the team alarmingly short of experienced options.

With both Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate dealing with ongoing injuries—and uncertainty regarding their futures at the club—reinforcements are crucial.

Although there are emerging talents like Ifeanyi Ndukwe and Mor Talla Ndiaye, Liverpool must consider adding a more established player to bolster their squad.

Given the lack of depth at right-back in the event of Gomez’s departure, an ideal solution would be to recruit a versatile centre-back capable of also playing right-back.

Such hybrid players are rare, but one promising candidate plays for RC Lens in France—Ismaelo Ganiou.

Though he may not yet be widely known, the 20-year-old has emerged as a notable young defender following his first-team debut with RC Lens this season.

In his earlier career, Ganiou was predominantly utilized as a wing-back or traditional right-back, which honed his attacking abilities and comfort with the ball. Recently, however, Lens has employed him on the right side of a back three, a move that aligns well with his skill set.

This position allows him to move forward, advance the ball into threatening areas, and play a key role in attack. His speed, technical ability, and poise in possession are standout attributes.

In attacking scenarios, Ganiou exhibits an eye for incisive forward passes and the confidence to take on opponents when opportunities arise.

His versatility is particularly appealing; he can easily overlap down the wing or shift into central positions to facilitate buildup play.

It was during a match as a centre-back that Ganiou made it clear he is ready for a transfer to Liverpool and the challenge of playing at Anfield.

In the French Cup final against OG Nice, Ganiou showcased his exceptional talent in defense, displaying maturity uncommon for a player his age.

He won the most duels (7) in the match, made 18 clearances, recorded four recoveries, and achieved a remarkable 92% passing accuracy. His outstanding performance demonstrated that he is ready to take the next step at a top European club.

Liverpool should not hesitate in pursuing Ganiou; bringing the young Frenchman to Anfield is crucial.