With Joel Matip increasingly likely to depart, the Reds are expected to be in the market for a new defender this summer
Midfield is not the only thing on the agenda for Liverpool heading into the summer transfer window. While it is widely accepted that the Reds will – and need to – strengthen their engine room, defensive reinforcement could also be required for Jurgen Klopp.
With Joel Matip's future uncertain – sources have told GOAL the 31-year-old is increasingly likely to leave at the end of the season – and with Joe Gomez having endured a testing campaign, there could suddenly be a need for a new centre-back at Anfield, one capable of challenging, and eventually succeeding, first-choice Virgil van Dijk in the coming years.
But who is on the radar? GOAL takes a look at a few potential candidates…
GettyJosko Gvardiol
One of the stars of the Qatar World Cup, and a player tipped to make a big move in the near future, Gvardiol has been watched by a number of top clubs, Liverpool included.
The Croatian has been in fine form for RB Leipzig this season, and unsurprisingly the Bundesliga club are desperate to keep the 21-year-old for at least another season. Their valuation, said to be around €90 million (£78m/$99m), is reflective of that.
Manchester City and Chelsea are also understood to be keen on Gvardiol, who plays as a left-sided centre-back and has also played occasionally at left-back. Wherever he ends up, it is likely to be in the Premier League.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesLevi Colwill
Brighton players are very much on the agenda for big clubs this summer, and Liverpool are no different. The Reds have made midfielder Alexis Mac Allister one of their top targets, and they are big admirers of Colwill, who has impressed at the Amex Stadium during a season-long loan from Chelsea.
The 20-year-old is viewed as a future England international, and a player with the potential to play at the very highest level. His speed, temperament and calmness in possession stand out, though there is an acceptance that it will be difficult for any club to persuade Chelsea to sell.
The word from Stamford Bridge is that Colwill will be part of the Blues' squad next season, but he is likely to want assurances over playing time, and if they do not arrive, then don't rule out a summer twist.
GettyAntonio Silva
Another centre-back being tipped for a big-money move, Silva has enjoyed a stellar campaign with Benfica, shining both domestically and in the Champions League.
Still only 19, the Portugal international looks destined for a long career at the top level, and appears to have the skillset to thrive in the Premier League.
But as Liverpool discovered when signing Darwin Nunez last summer, Benfica drive a hard bargain. Silva won't come cheap.
Jurrien Timber
If recent reports in the Netherlands are to be believed, Liverpool's Dutch contingent could be set for expansion. Timber, the Ajax defender, has been linked with a move to Anfield, and much about the story makes sense.
At 21, Timber already has bags of senior experience to go with his obvious potential. He is a ball-playing centre-back who has also operated at right-back – a not insignificant fact given the recent redeployment of Trent Alexander-Arnold.
He is not the tallest but his upbringing at Ajax means he is both tactically and technically accomplished, and a rumoured asking price of less around £35m ($44m) should be within Liverpool's remit.