With Joel Matip leaving the team at the end of last season and 33-year-old defender Virgil Van Dijk’s contract expiring at the end of the season, a new contract is expected to be signed, but no official announcement has yet been made and his departure has been closely watched.
Even if he signs a contract extension, it is time to look at a generational change in terms of age.In scouting young centre-backs who continue to make their mark in Europe, Liverpool may look to reinforce for the second year in a row from Valencia, following this summer’s signing of Georgia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are interested in Spanish U-21 defender Cristhian Mosquera, who could be in contention with Atletico Madrid and Inter Milan.
The 20-year-old centre-back, who also played one game for Spain U-23s and won the Paris Olympics, has been a regular in Valencia’s starting line-up this season. He has been on the pitch from the start of every game so far and is the mainstay of the final line.
He has the high athleticism required of a modern defender and covers a wide area. Although he is still not without rough edges, his potential is very high and it is not surprising that strong clubs are interested in him.
However, renewing the contract of the veteran Dutch defender is a priority for Liverpool.He is the leader of the centre-back corps and continues to show no signs of decline. He is good enough to play at the top level for at least a few more years.
Meanwhile, the departure of 27-year-old defender Joe Gomez also casts a pall over the club, and it would not be surprising if he wanted to move on in search of a regular role.
In fact, the player was included in the negotiations between Liverpool and Newcastle for Anthony Gordon, and is rumoured to be leaving next summer.
It is expected that a new centre-back will be secured by next summer, but will Liverpool be looking to whitewash the Spanish prospect…?