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With that in mind, here’s a look at centre-back options that could realistically strengthen Liverpool’s defensive line.
Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
Age: 25
Nationality: English
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £30-40 million
Why he fits: Guéhi is comfortable in a high line, with Liverpool relying on centre-backs who can defend large spaces behind them, his pace and anticipation help him cover these situations without panicking.
Already proven in the league with Crystal Palace, he wouldn’t face the adaptation risk of an overseas signing.
Giovanni Leoni (Parma)
Age: 18
Nationality: Italian
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £30-40 million
Why he fits: Even at 18, Leoni shows strong positioning and speed over distance, which is vital for Liverpool’s press and recover defensive shape.
While he’s not English, signing him young means he could qualify as ‘homegrown’ (Homegrown Rule) after three years in England before age 21, which would help squad registration.
Konstantinos Koulierakis (Wolfsburg)
Age: 21
Nationality: Greek
Foot: Left
Estimated Price: 35-45 million
Why he fits: Koulierakis has the height and strength to compete in aerial duels, important for defending set pieces and long balls, which Liverpool values.
Koulierakis is a combination of physical strength, speed, composure and youth, and also at a lower cost than other possible options.
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Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP)
Age: 23
Nationality: Portuguese
Foot: Left
Estimated Price: £50-60 million
Why he fits: Inácio has been on Liverpool’s radar for multiple windows and fits the profile of a modern, left-footed ball-playing centre-back.
Slot’s system, which encourages structured possession, would benefit from Inácio’s progressive passing and intelligent positioning.
Antonio Silva (Benfica)
Age: 21
Nationality: Portuguese
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £60-70 million
Why he fits: Silva is one of Europe’s brightest young defenders.
Though expensive, he could be the cornerstone of Liverpool’s defence for the next decade.
Ousmane Diomande (Sporting CP)
Age: 21
Nationality: Ivorian
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £45-60 million
Why he fits: A physical specimen with explosive pace, Diomande would add athleticism and recovery speed to Liverpool’s backline.