Despite rumours circulating, Liverpool are reportedly not planning to pursue a move for Sevilla defender Loïc Badé.
Following a disappointing 1-0 home loss to Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, new manager Arne Slot may be evaluating potential defensive reinforcements, but Badé does not appear to be on the club’s radar.
Slot’s start at Anfield has otherwise been solid, with three victories, seven goals scored, and three clean sheets from their opening fixtures, even without signing a new centre-back in the recent transfer window.
Currently, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, Jarell Quansah, and Joe Gomez are Liverpool’s main options at the heart of defence.
However, with Van Dijk turning 33 and entering the final year of his contract, it’s natural for Liverpool to begin exploring potential successors.
While Badé has been linked to the club, journalist Matteo Moretto reports that Liverpool have no current plans to formally approach the French defender.
Badé’s rise and release clause
Loïc Badé. Credit: Imago Images
Loïc Badé, 24, has revived his career at Sevilla after a disappointing loan spell with Nottingham Forest early in the 2022/23 season.
He has since made 63 appearances for the Spanish club and helped them secure a Europa League trophy. Additionally, Badé’s performance for France at the recent Olympics, where they earned a silver medal, has further boosted his reputation.
Earlier this month, Badé committed to a new long-term contract with Sevilla, which includes a release clause reportedly set at €60 million (£50.62 million).
His contract now runs through the 2028/29 season, making any potential transfer more complicated and costly for interested clubs.
While some reports have speculated that Liverpool might meet that fee, the latest information suggests that the Merseyside club does not have sufficient interest in pursuing such a high-profile move for the Frenchman at this time.
Ultimately, while Badé’s upward trajectory has attracted attention from various clubs, it seems unlikely that Liverpool will be among those making a serious bid for his services in the near future
