Football - FA Premier League - Everton FC v Liverpool FC LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND - Wednesday, February 12, 2025: Liverpool s Darwin Nunez L is challenged by Everton s Jarrad Branthwaite during the FA Premier League match between Everton FC and Liverpool FC, the 245th Merseyside Derby and the last one at Goodison Park. Photo by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda LIVERPOOL Goodison Park MERSEYSIDE ENGLAND PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK Copyright: xDavidxRawcliffex P2025-02-12-Everton_Liverpool-78
Liverpool are set to make a shock move.
Heading into this summer window, the club has identified areas that need significant improvements. After this week’s news of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure, it takes the number of possible departures from Anfield to three this summer.
Liverpool could lose three of their regular starting defence. Trent and Van Dijk could leave on a free with their contracts expiring at the end of the season. Alexander-Arnold has reportedly agreed a deal with Spanish side Real Madrid. Ibrahima Konate has now become a target for Europe’s biggest clubs. This summer, the Frenchman’s contract will be the topic of discussion. Konate’s current deal ends in 2026, and Liverpool could be forced to move him when the season ends.
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Liverpool target Everton star
This means the reds will need to enter the market for a new central defender. Reports have linked Liverpool with Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen. According to Sky Sports, the reds are one of multiple clubs keeping tabs on the England U21 international. The report claims that Branthwaite is aiming for a move to a top club as he pushes for a regular place in the England senior squad. With the 2026 World Cup around the corner, it is believed that the defender will push for a move this summer as he wants to be on the plane to North America.
Branthwaite is said to have taken this decision after his recent omission from Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad. The 22-year old was on duty with the England U21s during the international break.
Branthwaite could be the ideal Van Dijk replacement
Putting aside Merseyside rivalry, Jarrad Branthwaite is one of the best young defenders in the Premier League. He has a huge price tag on his head. But one thing that is not a doubt is his ability. The 22-year old broke into the Everton team and has cemented his place in the backline.
He has the perfect blend of size, speed and technicality. Branthwaite has similar build to Van Dijk despite having different defensive styles. He would cost a fortune, but Liverpool should really explore this opportunity.
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