Liverpool’s search for a left-footed centre-back has been ongoing since last year. With Joel Matip leaving Anfield at the end of his contract, there is an urgent need to secure numbers in the final line, and a deal in this summer’s transfer market is a real possibility.
Recently, interest from Liverpool was reported for Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori, who plays for Bologna. He made 37 appearances for his club last season and was also selected for EURO 2024, starting in all group stage matches.
However, Liverpool have already withdrawn from the race for the player, with only two clubs, Arsenal and Chelsea, vying for him, according to Fabrizio Romano, who is an expert on transfers in various countries.
“Arsenal have presented long term proposal to Riccardo Calafiori, after interest revealed last week.”
“Understand player’s open to joining Arsenal if they can agree terms with Bologna. Chelsea are still there.”
“Arsenal and Chelsea, the only two clubs in talks right now.”
🚨🔴⚪️ Arsenal have presented long term proposal to Riccardo Calafiori, after interest revealed last week.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 3, 2024
Understand player’s open to joining Arsenal if they can agree terms with Bologna. Chelsea are still there.
❗️ Arsenal and Chelsea, the only two clubs in talks right now. pic.twitter.com/nKEuTg9ZfF
Numerous other target names have also hit the media, with strong interest in 18-year-old defender Leny Yoro from LOSC Lille, although he is not a left-back, and all eyes are on which centre-backs Liverpool will be looking to whitewash.
Who will the Reds bring into their squad to strengthen their centre-backs…?