Three potential centre-back partners for Virgil van Dijk in the future
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Three potential centre-back partners for Virgil van Dijk in the future
By Nico Lloyd
After committing his future to the club until 2027, Liverpool fans have arguably the world’s finest centre-back in Virgil van Dijk to enjoy for another couple of seasons.
However, his partner at the back, Ibrahima Konate, could be on the move, with reports suggesting a transfer to Spanish giants Real Madrid is on the cards, be it this summer or at the end of the season.
A move for Marc Guehi is looking increasingly likely
Reds fans will be fully aware of reports linking the club with a move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, although if Konate departs the club soon, then Arne Slot is still short on options should Van Diijk pick up a long-term injury during what promises to be a gruelling campaign.
Additionally, Inter Milan are reportedly keen on the Palace captain, although Liverpool hold a sizeable advantage in negotiations given Guehi’s reported desire to move to Anfield.
Like Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, Guehi fits the bill, with a signing of his calibre surely resulting in fans who bet at the top Premier League betting sites backing the Reds to retain their crown.
Giovanni Leoni is one for the future
With reports suggesting his current employers want around £40million, even if a deal for 25-year-old Eagles star Guehi is agreed, another new arrival in the shape of 18-year-old Giovanni Leoni could be another option for Slot.
As such, Liverpool might need to snap up another central defender in the coming weeks, or even in January.
Below are three viable options.
Charlie Cresswell is an exciting young defender
English football is a conveyor belt of talent these days, and Charlie Cresswell is another defender with a seemingly bright future in the game.
Should the Catalan giants need to raise some much-needed funds, then a huge bid for Pau Cubarsi could test their resolve.
A product of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, Cubarsi could be the next Virgil van Dijk, although he’s arguably better on the ball than Liverpool’s big Dutchman and fresher given his tender age of just 18.
Hansi Flick would be devastated to lose a player who embodies what it means to be a modern defender, but he might not have a say in the matter.
Alessandro Bastoni would be a statement signing
Finally, we have Alessandro Bastoni, a central defender many regard as one of the best in his position.