Former Cameroon defender Joel Matip, who played a number of games in the final line under Jurgen Klopp, has left the club.Liverpool, who have to look at a generational change from Virgil van Dijk, are working to secure a new centre-back.
Bologna defender Riccardo Calafioli and Lille defender Leny Yoro are on the list, but they have also been linked with 27-year-old defender Waldemar Anton from Stuttgart, who finished second in the Bundesliga last season.
German Sky Sport Germany’s Florian Plettenberg reports that Bayer Leverkusen, who won the domestic league in Germany without defeat, are pushing hard to secure the player and are in a battle with Borussia Dortmund and others.
“Exclusive | There have already been at least two calls between Xabi Alonso and Waldemar Anton.”
“Leverkusen now pushing to sign the 27 y/o center-back from Stuttgart and offering a contract until 2028.”
“For Anton, there’s a competition between Leverkusen, Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart now. No verbal agreements yet. No final decision from Anton yet.”
“Anton can leave VfB Stuttgart due to a release clause: €20-25 million without a deadline.”
🚨📞 Exclusive | There have already been at least two calls between Xabi #Alonso and Waldemar Anton!
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 17, 2024
Leverkusen now pushing to sign the 27 y/o center-back from Stuttgart and offering a contract until 2028!
For Anton, there’s a competition between Leverkusen, Dortmund and VfB… pic.twitter.com/H84F2uVljD
With an age of 27, he does not meet Liverpool’s requirements.Therefore, it is unlikely that they will make a move for the German defender, who has also participated in EURO 2024.
A move within the Bundesliga is likely, but will he make the step up this summer…?