Liverpool was grappling with a defensive crisis back in January.
With Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni sidelined for the long term due to injuries, there were also concerns about the fitness levels of Jeremie Frimpong and Joe Gomez, which could not always be assured.
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This situation placed a significant burden on Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate at the center of defense, while Dominik Szoboszlai was also utilized in a right-back role.
Faced with these challenges, Arne Slot and Richard Hughes sought solutions in the transfer market to address the apparent shortage of experienced center-backs and right-backs.
And.
Liverpool Missed Out on January Deal for Geertruida
The 25-year-old, who previously captained Slot’s Feyenoord team, transferred to RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. However, the Netherlands international has struggled to adjust in Germany and was loaned to Sunderland last summer.
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Amid these developments, Liverpool attempted to secure a deal for the versatile defender—a bid that ultimately fell through due to the complications involved in the arrangement. Consequently, Geertruida remained at the Stadium of Light, though his future is still uncertain.
According to Fussballdaten in Germany, there are claims that Sunderland can secure his services for €20 million this summer, and the report also notes Liverpool’s ongoing interest in the versatile player.
Geertruida Could Be Available in Summer
The report states, “The Dutchman has become an essential player for Sunderland and has made his mark in the Premier League.”
“The club holds the option to sign him permanently for approximately €20 million.”
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“While nothing has been formally decided yet, Liverpool’s earlier interest implies that Geertruida still holds value on the international market—his expected participation in the upcoming World Cup could further enhance his worth.”
As a result, it’s quite possible that Slot and Hughes will renew their pursuit of Geertruida when the transfer window reopens.
With Ibrahima Konate’s potential departure and Joe Gomez’s uncertain future, Liverpool could benefit from a versatile option like Geertruida in order to navigate any challenges ahead.