Liverpool faces a significant challenge as they look to acquire a new centre-back, eyeing four exceptional candidates.
It’s evident that Liverpool must take decisive action in securing a centre-back. The team’s future in this position is uncertain, with all four of their first-choice options potentially at risk.
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Ibrahima Konate is the most pressing concern. His contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and as of now, he hasn’t signed an extension. The clock is ticking.
Joe Gomez was actually on the verge of leaving Liverpool last summer. A move for Marc Guehi was supposed to facilitate his transfer, but both deals ultimately fell through.
Giovanni Leoni is an exceptional talent, albeit one currently grappling with a serious knee injury. His recovery will determine his trajectory as a player.
Then there’s Virgil van Dijk, the cornerstone of Liverpool’s defence, and arguably the best defender in the world. However, with only one year remaining on his contract after this season, he’ll be 36 if the club decides to extend his contract. Liverpool needs to consider finding a successor.
Given these uncertainties, it’s no surprise that the club has identified several elite targets.
Marc Guehi
Liverpool’s primary centre-back target is Marc Guehi. The club made an attempt to sign him at the end of the summer transfer window, but Crystal Palace halted the deal at the last minute.
He will be out of contract at the end of the season, and reports suggest Liverpool will make another attempt in January. However, as he edges closer to free agency, competition may increase.
Nico Schlotterbeck
Another intriguing prospect is Nico Schlotterbeck. The Borussia Dortmund defender is considered one of the finest and most versatile centre-backs in Europe at the moment.
He’ll also have a single year left on his contract after this season, and while Dortmund aims to secure a renewal, interest from other clubs is rising. Schlotterbeck could be a perfect heir to Van Dijk—definitely one to watch.
Ronald Araujo
Liverpool has had ongoing links with Ronald Araujo for several years. Recently, reports have intensified, suggesting there may be a real opportunity to secure his services.
That said, Araujo may be the less exhilarating option on this list. While he would still be a solid addition, players like Guehi or Schlotterbeck seem to align better with the team’s ambitions.
Of course, why limit the pursuit to just one player?
Dayot Upamecano
Like Konate and Guehi, Upamecano’s contract concludes at the end of this season. Both Liverpool and Real Madrid are keen on securing his services for next season.
Bayern Munich is eager to extend his contract, but negotiations are stalling as Upamecano is demanding a significant salary. Liverpool may be prepared to meet those demands, which could lead to a significant shift in their strategy.
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