It Was Always... Liverpool

It Was Always... Liverpool

Five Centre-Backs Liverpool Could Sign Amid Konate Uncertainty

Liverpool are in need of defensive reinforcements as Konate talks stall...

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Ben Pescod
Oct 14, 2025
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With Liverpool’s central defensive options thinning by the week, it’s time to seriously consider dipping into the transfer market in January. The Reds may have conquered the Premier League under Arne Slot last season, but early signs in the new campaign suggest a looming problem in defence that needs addressing and fast.

The performances at centre-back have been patchy at best. Ibrahima Konate, who has been Virgil van Dijk’s long-term partner, is now struggling both for fitness and form. His contract expires in just eight months, and Real Madrid are circling with a view to a free transfer. Giovanni Leoni, the club’s most promising young centre-back, is out for the season with an ACL injury. That leaves just Van Dijk, Konate and Joe Gomez, with the latter holding a patchy injury record and potentially looking for an exit himself.

The situation is clear. Liverpool need at least one new centre-back. Here are five that could come in and make an immediate or long-term impact.

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