Liverpool’s depth crisis is an open secret. With only two centre-backs available at the moment, Arne Slot faces a big challenge if another injury strikes at Anfield.
Amidst the chaos, the Reds have been linked to every possible defender in the world right now. Marc Guehi is obviously on the list, as only a last-minute rejection from Crystal Palace blocked his move to Merseyside in the summer.
Both the player and Liverpool remain keen on working together in the next season if a move materialises. Guehi’s contract expires at the end of the season, and Slot will be looking forward to saving some money with a free move.
Dayot Upamecano is another centre-back whose contract is due at the end of this season. Ibrahima Konate’s France teammate has attracted all kinds of interest in Europe as he remains one of the most high-profile free players in the upcoming summer.
Liverpool transfer links in Germany
Nico Schlotterbeck might be settling in Germany despite Liverpool links (Credits: Imago Images)
The Reds were also rumoured to be scouting another defender in Germany. Borussia Dortmund centre-back Nico Schlotterbeck was reported to be on Slot’s transfer list.
A German international, Schlotterbeck, has garnered interest from the likes of Bayern Munich. However, Dortmund are certain that the 25-year-old will sign an extension in Arnsburg.
Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg is now reporting that Liverpool’s interest in the centre-back isn’t justified. Plettenberg also offered updates on the centre-back’s situation at Dortmund, and this is what he had to say on X (formerly Twitter):
“FC Bayern have made an enquiry about Nico Schlotterbeck and have expressed their interest, should he decide not to extend his contract, as revealed last week. Nothing more has happened at this stage.”
“BVB are optimistic that he will extend his contract beyond 2027. He is expected to become one of the club’s top earners, with a gross annual salary of around €10 million. The 25 y/o top centre-back has not yet made a decision.”
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Ibrahima Konate’s situation at Anfield
As recently reported by Anfield Central, Konate is getting mixed signals from Real Madrid at the moment. This is in line with multiple reports coming in from Spain, as Los Blancos might prefer Dayot Upamecano over the Liverpool centre-back.
Upamecano is also on the Reds’ radar, but Slot is more keen on Marc Guehi, considering the almost done deal in the summer. Slot will have to be wary of Joe Gomez, though, as the defender is attracting interest from Italy.
With the Englishman’s on-and-off role, Gomez might be tempted to make a move for better playing time. Major changes are expected in the summer, but Slot will have to remain on his toes in January.
