Liverpool defender “likely to stay” at the club
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It is a huge boost for the Reds going into next season. Image Credits: Imago ImagesLiverpool’s backline will be under an intense spotlight over the course of this summer.Many will question whether the Reds have the depth in that area of the pitch to compete at the highest level next season.The signing of highly rated Jeremy Jacquet is exciting, whilst everyone at the club will hope that Giovanni Leoni can return to the form he showed in Italy before his move to the Reds, but is it wise to rely so heavily on two young defenders next season?
Only time will tell.Of course, the imperious Virgil van Dijk remains at the club, but as he creeps into his mid-thirties, next season may just be his final season in Red and that being common knowledge may play a role in the club choosing his successor, whether that be this summer or the next.Liverpool only need to look into their recent history to warn them of the dangers of leaving themselves short at the back.But, as it stands, it appears that Liverpool’s desire to strengthen their defence is not significant, and they would rather divert their attention to the frontline given the exit of Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike’s long-term injury. Federico Chiesa is also set to depart.Whilst uncertainty remains, the Reds have received a boost in keeping their defensive department somewhat intact and it centers around a player’s future at the club.
A future that has been a big topic of discussion in recent weeks.Joe Gomez, who is the team’s current longest servant as he comes off the back of his 11th season at Anfield, has one year left on his current contract.The English defender is beginning to attract interest in his services, just as he does during during every transfer window, but so far he has consistently chosen to stay with the Reds.There was more uncertainty approaching this summer but James Pearce, writing for The Athletic, has confirmed that the 29-year-old is “likely to stay for the final year of his contract.”Whether that means he will depart next summer remains to be seen, but the defender staying on for another season will soften the blow of Ibrahima Konate’s departure.The Frenchman will depart the club for free this summer after spending five years on Merseyside and racking up 183 appearances for the club.