Liverpool Set to Sign Second Centre-Back Prospect Named One of the Best Youngsters in World

Liverpool FC are on the verge of securing their second major centre-back signing of the season, targeting a highly-rated young defender hailed as one of the world's top prospects. This move comes amid ongoing defensive crises, with the Reds holding a -2 goal difference in the Premier League after conceding 20 goals in 12 games.[1] Summer signing Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old Italian centre-back acquired from Parma for £26m plus add-ons, suffered a devastating ACL injury on his debut and is sidelined for the season.[1][2][3]

The club's defensive reinforcements have been urgently needed after a tumultuous summer transfer window where nearly £450m was spent, yet Arne Slot's side has struggled, plunging into the bottom half of the table.[2] A deadline-day deal for Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace collapsed at the last minute, despite the 25-year-old England international undergoing a medical and being Liverpool's frontrunner.[1][2] Now, with Ibrahima Konaté's contract extension in doubt, Liverpool are poised to reignite the Guehi pursuit or pivot to another elite prospect.[1]

Sporting director Richard Hughes has drawn up a five-man shortlist prioritizing a "top-level centre-back," with Guehi's Premier League experience, homegrown status, and expiring contract making him ideal.[2] Other targets include Ousmane Diomande (21, Sporting CP, €80m release clause), a La Liga defender like Oscar Mingueza (Celta Vigo), and Slot-favored options linked to his past clubs.[3][6] Bayern Munich is monitoring Konaté and Guehi, adding urgency to Liverpool's plans.[1]

If Konaté signs, the Guehi move may shift to summer; otherwise, a January sale could fund the transfer.[1] Liverpool's thin squad—relying on Virgil van Dijk, Konaté, and injury-prone Joe Gomez—demands action, especially after Jarell Quansah's exit.[4][6] This second centre-back signing promises to bolster Slot's defense and reshape the Reds' future.[1][2]

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