Lutsharel Geertruida is back among the names linked with Liverpool, with RB Leipzig reportedly open to the idea of the former Feyenoord man leaving this summer.
Despite inking a five-year deal on transfer deadline day last year, the Dutch defender has endured a problematic inaugural campaign, often finding himself outside of the starting lineup, having been linked with Liverpool earlier in the summer.
Under Marco Rose, Geertruida saw his playing time diminished post-March international break and even before that was sporadically dropped from the team. Now with Zsolt Low at the helm as interim coach, the 24-year-old has continued to endure limited pitch time, primarily being utilised in the central defensive roles as opposed to the right-back position he was known for at Feyenoord under Arne Slot.
According to Sky Germany, the player is deeply unsettled with his situation in Leipzig, going as far as saying he is “extremely dissatisfied”. The club, on their end, seem willing to entertain discussions about the Rotterdam-born player’s future.
Geertruida’s move has been termed “disappointing” by some, especially considering the $28 million (£21 million) price tag, inclusive of potential bonuses, paid to Feyenoord.
Back in August, Geertruida was captaining Feyenoord to the Johan Cruyff Shield following a dramatic penalty shootout victory over PSV Eindhoven, marking a milestone 200th appearance for the Dutch outfit.
(Image: ANP via Getty Images)
Following their triumph in the Dutch Cup under the guidance of Arne Slot, Geertruida shone, notching nine goals in all competitions and laying on another five assists for his teammates.
This sparkling form understandably sparked transfer talk linking him with a move to Liverpool, especially with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s contract winding down. Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur were also rumored to be keen on the full-back last summer.
Speaking to an internal media team at Leipzig before their Champions League clash with Liverpool, Geertruida reflected on his development, saying: “Arne managed to get the best out of me.
Learn more
“He was never afraid to give me some harsh truths and was always correct in what he said about me. I believe he was a game changer for Feyernoord as soon as he arrived in Rotterdam.
“He is an intelligent coach who knows how he wants to go about things. Off the field he is also very open and is always prepared to listen to what you have to say and is easy to have a conversation with.”
Liverpool could be on the lookout for a defender who can play both at right back and centrally and Geertruida would certainly fit the bill.
He sparked speculation when he watched Liverpool’s draw with West Ham at the end of last season and would have reportedly jumped at the chance to follow Slot to Anfield.
