Liverpool are keeping a close eye on any market opportunities to improve their backline.
The Reds’ terrible start to the season has been for many reasons, but the biggest reason is their defence.
Liverpool have been far too open at the back and have conceded far too many goals, which is why they are keen to bring in some new recruits.
Liverpool’s top 10 biggest January signings
- 1. Virgil van Dijk – £75m, 2018
- 2. Luis Diaz – £43m, 2022
- 3. Cody Gakpo – £35m, 2023
- 4. Andy Carroll – £35m, 2011
- 5. Luis Suarez – £22.7m, 2011
- 6. Javier Mascherano – £18.6m, 2008
- 7. Daniel Sturridge – £12m, 2013
- 8. Philippe Coutinho – £8.5m, 2013
- 9. Fernando Morientes – £6.3m, 2005
- 10. Martin Skrtel – £6m, 2008
They have been linked with many names, some more than others, but a recent update suggests one might just become available sooner than they thought.
The defender in question is said to not be prepared to sign a new contract at his current club, which could in turn open the door for the Reds.
Nico Schlotterbeck will not sign a new contract at Borussia Dortmund
Liverpool want a fairly young centre-back who has time to grow but is also still relatively experienced; look no further than Nico Schlotterbeck.
The 26-year-old has turned into an important figure for Borussia Dortmund and the German national team, which has meant he has caught the eye of some top clubs.
Liverpool are one of the teams interested, and they may have been given a boost as according to SportBILD, they believe Schlotterbeck will not be extending his contract at the club.
His current deal expires in 2027, meaning that this summer is the last time they would be able to cash in on him, which is why Liverpool should be on red alert.
They also state that the defender has ambitions of winning trophies on a regular basis, something he could do at Anfield.
A lot will depend on the future of Ibrahima Konate, of course, as well as what the Reds’ plans are in January, but Schlotterbeck might just be the perfect option to add to their backline.
Nico Schlotterbeck would be the perfect Virgil van Dijk replacement
Fill in the blank: Liverpool simply have to sign — in January 🙏
Notable names linked with Liverpool
- Antoine Semenyo (£65m release clause)
- Marc Guehi (out of contract this summer)
- Yan Diomande (£17.5m market value)
- Eduardo Camavinga (£43.8m market value)
Attempting to sign players on a free transfer is certainly very risky, as Liverpool could find out with Marc Guehi, but Schlotterbeck could be worth that risk.
His contract expires at the same time as Virgil van Dijk’s, and as he is the perfect profile to take over from the captain, waiting until 2027 to make the move might be worthwhile.
He is left-footed, meaning he would likely prefer to play on the left side of defence, is tall and strong, and also possesses a good passing range.
These characteristics make him the ideal heir to van Dijk’s throne as the transition could be seamless, although teams could come sniffing before he becomes a free agent.
Liverpool will need to sign someone in January, though, so adding someone like Guehi would take away any rush to sign Schlotterbeck and make a move a year on more worthwhile.
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