Liverpool are on the lookout for a new centre-back this summer as they aim to shore up their defensive options.
The Reds have one of the best defenders on the planet secured for the next two years after Virgil van Dijk signed his new contract back in April. But beyond their captain, Liverpool are quietly facing a bit of a centre-back puzzle.
Ibrahima Konate’s situation is becoming slightly uncomfortable, with his contract ticking into its final year and no new deal yet agreed. Joe Gomez, while hugely valuable thanks to his versatility, will always have lingering doubts hanging over him due to his injury record.
And now, with Sunday’s reports confirming that Jarell Quansah is closing in on a move to Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool are suddenly left with just three senior centre-backs as things stand.
Naturally, the Reds are active in the market for fresh defensive reinforcements, but before splashing out, Arne Slot may be wise to cast a closer eye on the promising talent already emerging from Liverpool’s academy.
Amara Nallo, 18
Liverpool haven’t exactly been aggressive when it comes to recruiting centre-backs over the years — Van Dijk remains the only permanent addition since 2018, and none have arrived in the past four years. However, Quansah’s rise last season was a reminder that quality options can emerge from within.
Nallo looked like the next big hope from the academy ranks before his unfortunate red card on his senior debut against PSV back in January. While that brief appearance ended prematurely, his inclusion that night showed the high regard in which the coaching staff hold him.
The young defender had previously impressed in pre-season under Klopp, and now, with Quansah potentially gone, Slot might give him a serious look over the summer.
Wellity Lucky, 19
Nallo’s defensive partner last season, Wellity Lucky, is another name that may come into the conversation. Liverpool have already offered the Spanish youngster a new contract amid outside interest — a strong sign of faith in his long-term potential.
Lucky also offers valuable flexibility, being able to cover at right-back as well as in central defence — something that could prove useful following Trent Alexander-Arnold’s exit. Like Quansah before him, Lucky may not be fully polished yet, but a strong pre-season could put him firmly in Slot’s plans for next year.
Carter Pinnington, 18
If anyone truly embodies the Liverpool DNA, it’s Carter Pinnington. Having been with the club since the Under-7s, the towering 18-year-old Scouser now finds himself on the brink of a first-team breakthrough.
Similar to Quansah’s pathway, Pinnington has quietly built a strong reputation inside Kirkby, combining his natural aerial dominance with calmness on the ball and even experience playing as a holding midfielder. With Quansah’s departure opening up opportunities, this summer could be huge for him.
One or two wildcards?
It’s also worth keeping an eye on Lucas Pitt, another promising youngster who could catch Slot’s attention once pre-season gets underway. Liverpool’s backline might look very different next season, but the academy pipeline continues to quietly deliver exciting options for the future.
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