Liverpool are on the lookout for a new centre-back this summer as they aim to shore up their defensive options.

The Reds arguably have the best defender in the world tied up for the next two years after Virgil van Dijk signed a new contract in April.

However, beyond the captain, Liverpool are starting to create a small problem for themselves.

Ibrahima Konate’s contract is causing concern after ticking into its last year, while Joe Gomez’s fitness will forever cast doubts upon his suitability.

Liverpool's five most expensive academy sales ever as Jarell Quansah prepares to take crown from £17m defender	Three young defenders Liverpool could target to replace Jarell Quansah including 'physically strong' title-winner - opinion	Quansah exit fee confirmed as Liverpool academy graduate heads to Leverkusen – report

Meanwhile, Sunday brought news that Jarell Quansah is set to leave for Bayer Leverkusen, leaving the Liverpool squad with only three senior centre-back options.

The Reds are on the hunt for a young defender in the transfer market to fill Quansah’s place in the squad.

But before they pull the trigger on a new signing, Arne Slot should assess three burgeoning prospects within the Liverpool academy.

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It is slightly alarming that Liverpool have only signed one further centre-back since Van Dijk joined in 2018, and none for the past four years.

But Quansah’s ascension to the first team in 2023 was proof that young defenders can make it through the academy.

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And after Quansah’s success story, Amara Nallo had looked likely to be the next cab off the rank.

Nevertheless, that the 18-year-old was on the pitch at all showed just how highly he is rated at Liverpool.

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There will be those who have written Nallo off after his rush of blood in Eindhoven, but that would be unfair.

The former West Ham youngster is clearly on Slot’s radar having also been involved during last summer’s pre-season and it would not be a surprise to see him assessed with a spot now open within the squad.

Nallo formed a strong partnership with Wellity Lucky last season and the Spanish youngster is another who should be considered for a promotion.

Liverpool have offered Lucky a new contract amid interest in his services and that is a vote of confidence over how he is viewed at Anfield.

Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Also capable of playing at right-back, the 19-year-old’s versatility could also be a boost, as Liverpool find a way to re-shape following the exit of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Lucky is not the finished article, but then neither was Quansah.

If he is given a chance by Slot in pre-season he could find himself in with a shout next term.

With Liverpool since U7 level, it may finally be time for Carter Pinnington to make his mark in the Reds’ first team.

Quansah had to wait a little while before getting his chance under Jurgen Klopp, and perhaps Pinnington will follow a similar trajectory.

Tall and commanding – and also with experience of playing in holding midfield – the 18-year-old Scouser will be one of those whose ears perked up at the news of Quansah’s departure.

Meanwhile, Lucas Pitt could be another name to watch out for in pre-season as Slot takes stock of his options.


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