Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk, who has held Liverpool’s final line together since moving to the club from Southampton, is now 33 years old and in the final stages of his career. His play shows no signs of decline, but he is approaching an age when he could be rattled at any moment.
Although the club has two defenders in Ibrahima Konate and Jarell Quansah who will carry the next generation of centre-backs, England defender Joe Gomez has been rumoured to be on his way out, making a reshuffle of the final line inevitable.
According to The Athletic, Liverpool are interested in acquiring 18-year-old defender Vitor Reis from Palmeiras, a young gem who would be a great addition to the Brazilian national team’s back line, and could join the battle for the player to lead the Arne Slott regime It appears that.
Arsenal, Real Madrid, Chelsea and Barcelona are also keen on the player. As for the former two clubs, they have been in contact with the clubs and their agents to explore the possibility of acquiring the player. Chelsea, Liverpool and Barcelona are quiet at the moment, but may move in the future.
The Gunners are looking to further strengthen their solid centre-back line-up with Gabriel and William Saliba, and are expected to try to persuade the Brazilian U-17 defender to secure his talents. Madrid have identified Reis as one of their targets as a promising young replacement for Lenny Yolo.
With so many mega clubs in the race, the transfer fee will inevitably rise. Liverpool are unlikely to be able to compete financially. There are also rumours that Liverpool are prioritising the acquisition of a left-back, so the priority would be a centre-back in his early 20s who can also play left-back and compete regularly.
Will Liverpool make investing in the future a priority in their centre-back future?
Or will they extend their hand to a player who can be used as a starter right now, while preparing for the departure of Gomes?