Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk, who have continued to lead the back line under Jurgen Klopp, will both turn 33 next year. With Liverpool having to keep in mind a generational change in the center-back corps, the next reinforcement is seen as a defender.
Last summer, the club set out to acquire a left-handed center back, with names such as Chelsea defender Levi Colwill frequently reported. Matip, whose contract expires at the end of this season, has become more urgent for reinforcements, as a serious injury has doomed him for the season.
According to AS, Liverpool are eyeing Kevin Mantilla, who is a member of CA Talleres. Brighton, also in the Premier League, has also expressed interest and reported that a battle could develop soon.
The 20-year-old center back, who has a contract until December 2027, joined Independiente Santa Fe last summer. Despite this being his first time playing abroad, he showed great potential and started eight games in the Argentine national league.
At 191 cm, he has a good physique, and his running ability is also impeccable. He also has the footwork required of a modern center back, and has a good sense of passing up front. He is a defender who could play a key role for Colombia, and he must be considering a move to Europe.
Liverpool has seen an increase in the number of Spanish-speaking players in recent years, including Colombian forward Luis Diaz. Although their lifestyle is different, they will not have that much trouble fitting in, as there are many players around who can lean on them.
Brighton has been strengthening its scouting in South America, and Alexis Mac Allister and Moises Caicedo have made the step up to the big clubs through the club. Julio Enciso and Pervis Estupinan are currently playing for the club.
What kind of career will the Colombian talent have?