Born in Bochum, 32-year-old defender Joel Matip joined Liverpool on a free transfer from Schalke in 2016. Together with fellow 32-year-old defender Virgil van Dijk, he led the back line and formed a solid defensive unit.
He was competing with French defender Ibrahima Konate for a spot this season, but a serious injury to a torn cruciate ligament has left him doubtful to play again in the final year of his contract. The team is looking for a replacement for the injured player, who is expected to leave the club when his contract expires.
According to the Evening Standard, Liverpool are tracking Fulham defender Tosin Adarabioyo and are keeping an eye on his current contract, which expires in June 2024. The player has also received interest from Italy, with AC Milan also keeping an eye on him.
The player can be acquired without a transfer fee, and being from Manchester, he can also fill the Englishman’s slot. Despite his height, he is soft on his feet and has the running ability to cover space behind the final line, something Liverpool needs in a center back.
With the announcement of Jurgen Klopp’s departure, this is a group that could be heavily replaced. Van Dijk’s departure has been ambiguous, and in addition, he will be 33 years old this July, so we must also keep an eye on the generational change in the center backs.
Liverpool, who relentlessly targeted left-handed center backs in the transfer market last summer, will be serious about acquiring the former Manchester City defender, who also has a wealth of experience in the Premier League…?