Liverpool is expecting a busy summer transfer window and, although the market doesn’t open for another few weeks, plans are already taking shape.
Defense certainly appears to be an area where significant work is needed. Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to depart, there are doubts about the long-term futures of Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez and Kostas Tsimikas, while Andy Robertson’s form has dipped this season.
Therefore, it’s unsurprising that this summer “could see the biggest single overhaul of Liverpool’s defensive options” since 2013, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The outlet states that left-back has become “a priority” position, with Liverpool in the driving seat to sign Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth. The Hungarian could cost around £40million ($53M).
Given Alexander-Arnold’s imminent departure, right-back is an obvious area that needs strengthening. In fact, heading into the summer, it is now the only position where Slot doesn’t have two natural options.
The Dutchman did namecheck Gomez, Jarell Quansah and Curtis Jones as possible alternatives to play there, but the Echo states Liverpool could still look to sign a right-back this summer.
Jeremie Frimpong “would be a player of interest”, according to the local newspaper, due to his £30million ($40M) buyout clause.
At center-back, Konate’s future could affect the summer strategy, with the Frenchman set to enter the final 12 months of his contract in July.
However, the Echo states that despite speculation surrounding his future, there are no plans to allow Jarell Quansah to leave.
(Image: Robin Jones – AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)
Dean Huijsen is the center-back who continues to be linked with a move to Liverpool, while Chelsea has been credited with interest.
The Bournemouth defender has admitted he has a release clause in his contract, and his days on the south coast look numbered.
It comes as the Daily Mail claims the Cherries are “exploring a move” for Nantes defender Nathan Zeze, who is seen as a possible replacement for Huijsen.
Bournemouth will face competition from Inter Milan, Atalanta and Crystal Palace for the 19-year-old center-back who has been capped by France at Under-21 level. Zeze is reportedly valued at around £17M ($23M).
“Bournemouth have also been scouting in France for a left-back with Liverpool among those expected to bid for Milos Kerkez too,” the Mail adds.
