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Liverpool need at least one backup centre-back after selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million and with Joe Gomez struggling with injuries.

The Reds have already revamped their defence this summer, with Caoimhin Kelleher leaving and new competition for Alisson from Giorgi Mamardashvili, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman.

Jeremie Frimpong has joined at right-back, replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Milos Kerkez has been signed to challenge Andy Robertson as Kostas Tsimikas nears an exit.

Liverpool have been linked with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, whose contract runs out next year.

Palace chairman Steve Parish earlier confirmed that losing him for free would be a problem and that he could be sold this summer.

“For players of that calibre to leave on a free, it’s a problem?

No doubt about it, unfortunately,” Parish said.

“We had one bid (last summer) but Joachim (Andersen) went (to Fulham) and we couldn’t afford to lose both of them.

“We then had another bid in January but that was a difficult situation as well, and the player had a point of view on that one.

“So we just have to see what happens but it needs a new contract or a conclusion of some kind.”

DaveOCKOP can exclusively reveal that Liverpool are willing to pay up to £30m up front for Guehi, but the Eagles are hoping for a fee closer to £40m.

Talks are progressing between the clubs and it is believed that an agreement will be found.

Liverpool are also increasing their interest in Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni as they look to strengthen their defence.

The 18-year-old impressed in Serie A last season and has already been called up to Italy’s under-21 squad.

While no direct talks have taken place, reports suggest Parma would consider offers around €30million (£26m) plus bonuses.

Inter Milan, led by former Parma coach Cristian Chivu are also interested in the defender.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Leoni is keen on joining Liverpool this summer.

Leoni joined Parma from Sampdoria last summer for €5million and previously played in Serie B and Serie C, making his professional debut at 16.

Read more: Exclusive: How much Liverpool are willing to pay for Marc Guehi

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Fabrizio Romano confirms defensive reinforcements: “Working on both”

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