Liverpool are reportedly intent on bringing in defensive cover this summer as they prepare to begin their Premier League title defence.
On Monday Arne Slot’s side returned to Anfield for the first time since Diogo Jota’s death and played a pair of friendlies against LaLiga side Athletic Bilbao.
Fielding two separate teams on the same day exposed the lack of depth in the heart of defence, with Andy Robertson and academy product Trey Nyoni deputising in the position for the first game.
With Virgil van Dijk unavailable through illness and Joe Gomez still nursing an injury suffered during the club’s pre-season tour Liverpool were forced to deploy Wataru Endo alongside their only available senior centre back in Ibrahima Konate.
This, combined with Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen last month, highlighted the Reds’ need for defensive reinforcements and the club are reportedly already hard at work identifying potential options.
Mail Sport revealed earlier this summer that Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi is on the club’s radar.
Liverpool are keeping tabs on several players are Arne Slot looks to bolster his defensive options
With both Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez unavailable, Ibrahima Konate was the club’s only recognised centre back for their two friendlies with Athletic Bilbao on Monday
Liverpool have maintained an interest in Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who is in the last 12 months of his contract at Selhurst Park
The England international has less than 12 months remaining on his current deal at Selhurst Park and reports suggest he would be keen on a move to Merseyside.
Newcastle repeatedly pushed to sign Guehi last summer as a protracted saga unfolded surrounding his future before he ultimately remained at Palace.
According to a report from The Times, the club are also keeping tabs on Parma’s Giovanni Leoni.
At just 18, Leoni already commands a starting place for the Serie A club and earned plaudits for his performances last season as the club managed to avoid relegation in their first season back in the top flight.
Meanwhile Conor Bradley is expected to miss Sunday’s Community Shield against Crystal Palace through injury.
Bradley did not feature in either of Monday’s friendlies after suffering a knock in training and is now in a race to bit fit for the start of the Premier League season.
Liverpool get their campaign underway next Friday as they welcome Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth to Anfield.
