With Virgil van Dijk turning 34 next year, Joe Gomez rumoured to be on his way out this summer and Jarell Quansah not making as much of an impact as he did last season, Liverpool’s centre-backs. Reinforcements are inevitable from a long-term perspective and interest has been shown in a variety of centre-backs.
According to Get Italian Football News, Liverpool are keen on Dutch defender Sam Beukema, who plays for Bologna. The report also claims that manager Arne Slot tried to acquire him during his time at Feyenoord.
The 26-year-old centre-back, who sought a new home in Italy from AZ Alkmaar in 2023, has made 54 appearances throughout Serie A and the Champions League. He has been the mainstay of the final line this season, and even started against Liverpool in the CL group stage.
In addition to domestic sides such as Inter Milan and Juventus, rumours have circulated that Spanish sides such as Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are also interested, which could lead to a fierce battle in the transfer market next year.
The 26-year-old’s age may be a problem for Liverpool, but he should be able to provide an environment in which he can fit in easily, as the club’s manager and key players are all from the Netherlands.
Although he does not have a wealth of experience at the top level, he has the ability to be a valuable back-up.
Will the Merseyside clubs extend their hand to a Dutch defender who is gaining a reputation in Italy?