At the age of 33, Dutch defender Virgil van Dijk is in the final year of his current contract. Although no announcement has been made at this stage, both the club and the player are believed to be open to renewing his contract, and it is likely that he will continue to play an active role at Anfield.
However, they are also looking to invest in the future. Various names of defenders have hit the media as they set their sights on young centre-backs who, along with Ibrahima Konate and Jaleel Quansah, can take over the final line in the long term.
22-year-old defender Jarrad Branthwaite, who plays for local rivals Everton, has been reported as one of the targets, but Fabrizio Romano has flatly ruled out that possibility and said no moves have been made.
“No, to be honest, I’m told at the moment there is nothing concrete.”
“The situation is still under control for Branthwaite and Everton. There are no negotiations or talks taking place with Liverpool,”
“The appreciation from Manchester United remains, but they invested big money on centre-backs.”
“So at the moment, the situation remains quiet. Obviously, Everton expect big clubs to arrive in the summer of 2025, so I would not be surprised if some of these big clubs will return for Branthwaite, but as of today, there are no concrete talks or negotiations.”
“Despite such speculative reporting, has changed from when bookmakers slashed the odds of Branthwaite joining Liverpool in August.”
“Back then, both club insiders and those close to the England international’s camp were left bemused by the developments, claiming to be unaware where such speculation has come from, with zero contact between Everton and Liverpool on the matter.”
Debrief Podcast