Liverpool could make a move to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s Evan Ndicka as they look to bolster their defence
The Reds’ need for a new centre-back was brought into sharp focus this week, as Joe Gomez put in a horror show performance against Real Madrid. So far, the dream signing in that regard appears to be RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol.
That’s something that journalist Ben Jacobs corroborates when speaking to TeamTalk today. Jacobs claims that scouts from top clubs all across Europe are convinced that Gvardiol is the next big thing. However, the journalist also indicates he could cost as much as £100m.
Jacobs tips Liverpool to look at Ndicka
As a result of their pursuit of Jude Bellingham, Liverpool may not be able to afford such a price. If that seemingly likely scenario comes to pass, Jacobs claims that Ndicka could be seen as a far cheaper quality alternative.
“The other one [aside from Gvardiol], Evan Ndicka, who is going to be an absolute bargain for somebody because as things stand at the moment, he’ll be available from Eintracht Frankfurt on a free transfer,” the journalist explained.
“I think Spurs are one to watch as well, as we know that they want a centre-back as well. But Ndicka is out of contract at the end of the season. Also left-footed and another one to keep a close eye on as far as Liverpool are concerned. Because he also has that modern centre-back attribute and profile and has drawn a lot of attention because you know Liverpool will always look for value in the market. And as things stand Ndicka is exactly that.
“I also don’t even think that the wages would be particularly high either by Premier League standards. So you know, we have to wait and see on that one now. But I think that centre-back after midfield, or in conjunction with midfield, will be very important for Liverpool.”
Reds to wait for Gvardiol
With Liverpool full steam ahead in their Bellingham chase, most fans would accept they can’t pay a similar price for a centre-back.
It would be nice if they could, of course it would. But how many clubs do you see spending £100m or so on two separate players in the same window? Even the richest clubs in world football don’t operate in that way. Especially when they need two or three more players to boot. As Fabrizio Romano has reported, that’s what Gvardiol would cost.
So, any fans hoping to see both Bellingham and Gvardiol arrive at Anfield this summer may be left disappointed. In our opinion, it’s much more likely that a player like Ndicka arrives, with the Leipzig man potentially coming in a year later.
With Joel Matip out of contract in 2024, that would make sense. Ndicka could provide added cover until then, helping to alleviate concerns over Ibrahima Konate’s fitness and Joe Gomez’s suitability.
Once Matip departs and perhaps even Gomez with him, Gvardiol could then come in as a top-class option ahead of 2024/25. Sorted!