With Joel Matip out of the team and Virgil Van Dijk now a veteran, Liverpool are looking to push for a generational change in their centre-backs and are working to secure new defenders in the summer transfer window.
Liverpool have been linked with a huge variety of centre-backs, with Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori and Ecuadorian defender Piero Hincapie also mentioned as targets, but Ben Jacobs (sports journalist) has denied the rumours.
“My understanding is that Liverpool are not actively in the race for him at this stage, we’ve heard links with several Premier League clubs, but Liverpool sources downplay the links that are being made between Calafiori and them, so it appears that they have other targets that they are working on.”
“That’s the same also for Piero Hincapie as well, who is constantly being linked with Liverpool. But again, there’s denials from sources close to Liverpool that he’s a target they’re looking to pursue, either.”
GIVEMESPORT
The Bologna defender has also reportedly agreed a deal with Arsenal, but Chelsea are also believed to be interested in acquiring him, so there is no room for digression until the last minute.
Both sides have plenty of money to spend and are able to splash out on a hefty transfer fee, so the fierce battle is likely to continue.
Interest in the Bayer Leverkusen defender, who won the Bundesliga without defeat under Xabi Alonso, has been reported since last summer.
The left-handed centre-back, who can also play left-back, is 22 years old and fits Liverpool’s target image.
Nevertheless, they are scrutinising a number of centre-backs and both players have been dropped for the time being. Liverpool are said to be pursuing other targets, but which defender will they bring to Anfield…?