Liverpool’s transfer window is off to a flying start, with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez set for a medical, following the high-profile signings of Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. Yet, amidst the excitement, the Reds face a looming defensive dilemma.
The imminent departure of Jarell Quansah to Leverkusen, coupled with concerns over Ibrahima Konaté’s future, has sparked a potential centre-back crisis. The 26-year-old French international has reportedly rejected Liverpool’s initial contract extension offer, citing dissatisfaction with the terms. With Real Madrid circling and Konaté eyeing a higher basic wage, sporting director Richard Hughes might need to act swiftly to secure a replacement.
Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi is rumored to be the frontrunner to fill Quansah’s boots, but Liverpool’s search for defensive reinforcements doesn’t stop there. Inspired by FBRef data, we’ve scoured Europe’s top leagues to identify players who mirror Konaté’s dominant duel-winning abilities – both on the ground and in the air – as potential candidates for Anfield’s defensive line.
10) Robin Koch (Eintracht Frankfurt)
Robbin Koch’s Premier League stint with Leeds ended in relegation, but the German defender has since rebuilt his reputation at Eintracht Frankfurt. As captain, he played a pivotal role in guiding the club to Champions League qualification. His steady performances in Germany’s Nations League matches further solidify his credentials as a reliable option.
9) Eric Dier (Bayern Munich)
Once a scapegoat at Tottenham, Eric Dier has quietly proven his worth at Bayern Munich. With 16 Bundesliga starts under his belt last season, the 31-year-old veteran brings experience and stability, making him a sensible short-term solution for Liverpool.
8) Florian Lejeune (Rayo Vallecano)
Lejeune’s Newcastle tenure may have been forgettable, but the Frenchman etched his name into Premier League folklore with a last-minute brace against Everton. Now thriving in La Liga, he represents a low-risk, high-reward option for the Reds.
7) Matteo Gabbia (AC Milan)
Gabbia’s breakout season at AC Milan, with 25 Serie A starts, has caught the eye. Despite his late emergence, the 25-year-old Italian defender showcased his potential, earning a national team call-up and positioning himself as a viable candidate.
6) Tosin Adarabioyo (Chelsea)
Adarabioyo has quietly become Chelsea’s most consistent centre-back since his free transfer from Fulham. While not a standout star, his steady performances and low-maintenance attitude make him an ideal squad player for Liverpool.
5) Levi Colwill (Chelsea)
Liverpool’s long-standing interest in Colwill has persisted despite his inconsistent form at Chelsea. The young defender’s recent resurgence, marked by physical and mental growth, suggests he’s finally ready to fulfill his potential at the highest level.
4) Micky van de Ven (Tottenham)
Van de Ven’s blistering pace and athleticism have made him a fan favorite. His heroic goal-line clearance against Rasmus Højlund in the Europa League final showcased his game-changing abilities – qualities that could flourish under Liverpool’s system.
3) Clément Lenglet (Atletico Madrid)
Lenglet’s career resurgence under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid speaks volumes. With 11 clean sheets in 23 La Liga starts, the experienced Frenchman could provide both stability and depth to Liverpool’s backline.
2) Malick Thiaw (AC Milan)
Once a Liverpool target during his Schalke days, Thiaw’s progress has stalled since joining AC Milan. However, his raw talent and potential make him a risk worth considering for the Reds.
1) Amir Rrahmani (Napoli)
Antonio Conte’s effusive praise for Rrahmani – calling him “a soldier, a robot, a computer” – says it all. The Kosovo captain was instrumental in Napoli’s Scudetto triumph and remains a rock-solid defensive force.
Stay ahead of the game with the latest sports updates and insights – click here.
