Liverpool’s summer spending is set to continue – with Jurgen Klopp expected to consider defensive reinforcements as part of his squad rebuild during the transfer window
Liverpool’s summer squad overhaul has got off to a promising start, with the arrivals of Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister boosting the Reds midfield.
Midfielders were always expected to be the priority, with the departures of Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and James Milner leaving a hole in the squad. However, defence is also thought to be a priority for improvement, with Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk both having entered their thirties.
Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a reliable option for years to come, but there will be backup required as Joe Gomez struggled to recapture his early Anfield form last season. Nat Phillips is also linked to the exit door, with Rhys Williams already having left the club as part of the summer transfer business.
In addition, after forays last season, a long-term move for Trent Alexander-Arnold into midfield has been touted. However, the departure of Calvin Ramsay on loan has left the need to sign a right-back necessary to facilitate such a move.
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Jurrien Timber had been linked to Liverpool, but is now expected to join Arsenal in a £38.5m deal, with the Ajax defender having the capability to play as both a right-back and centre-back. When his and Declan Rice’s arrival at the Emirates is confirmed, it will take the Gunners’ summer spending past the £200m mark.
However, there remain plenty of options – here, we take a look at the defenders who could join Liverpool this summer.
Goncalo Inacio
At just 21 years old, Inacio has already accumulated 100 appearances as part of an exciting Sporting Lisbon side under Ruben Amorim.
The centre-back has a reported £38.5 million amid interest from Liverpool, Manchester United and Newcastle United. Meanwhile, contract talks to make such a clause redundant have been put on hold.
His ability to play as a ball-playing defender as part of a high line would also appeal to Klopp, with his desire to play an advanced defensive line.
The chances of this deal appear slim, however. While there have been reports in Portugal suggesting both Liverpool and Chelsea are set to enter a bidding war for the player, club sources have told the ECHO he is not under consideration.
Levi Colwill
Impressing with England’s U21 side, 20-year-old defender Colwill has become a sought after player within the Premier League after impressing on loan from Chelsea at Brighton last season
The left-footed centre-back would fill a previously unfilled role at Liverpool, with his profile having the opportunity to bring greater tactical versatility.
Such players are increasingly sought after and the Chelsea defender could be a sensible option, however, Brighton had a reported £40m bid rejected and are believed to have turned their attentions to other targets.
As the ECHO reported back in March though, Liverpool are certainly admirers of the player.
Marc Guehi
Another home-grown player, Crystal Palace defender Guehi provides another potential option for a fee in the region of £50 million.
The 22-year-old had been linked to Arsenal, but their expected signing of Timber could present Liverpool with an opportunity to swoop.
A commanding presence with the ability to play out from the back, he would suit Liverpool well and as an England international he has already been tested at the highest level.