Liverpool will be keeping a close eye on the tournament as current players and potential targets aim to shine
U21 Euros: Liverpool Monitor Cristhian Mosquera as Centre-Back Succession Planning Intensifies
While much of the Liverpool first-team enjoys a brief off-season before the return of pre-season training in under a month, the club’s recruitment team is firmly focused on the UEFA Under-21 European Championship — a tournament offering both short- and long-term opportunities for strategic squad development.
Liverpool are actively monitoring the competition for emerging talent, particularly in the centre-back position, an area where long-term succession planning has become a growing priority.
Mosquera Emerging as Key Target
Valencia’s Cristhian Mosquera continues to impress for Spain, earning Man of the Match honours in their 2-1 win over Romania. The 20-year-old defender, long on Liverpool’s radar, is showing maturity and composure beyond his years — blending aerial dominance with confident ball distribution, two traits well-suited to Liverpool’s evolving tactical demands.
Despite his age, Mosquera has already accumulated 90 senior appearances for Valencia and is regarded as one of La Liga’s top young prospects. If his performances continue at this level, Liverpool may face increased competition for his signature.
Squad Planning Context
The need to reinforce at centre-back is growing more pressing:
Ibrahima Konaté has yet to agree a contract extension and could leave on a free transfer next summer. Real Madrid are known admirers.
Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah are both open to new challenges amid limited minutes, and Liverpool are reportedly willing to sanction exits if suitable offers are made.
Virgil van Dijk, while still central to the squad, is entering the final phase of his career. His current deal expires in 2026, by which point he will be 35.
As a result, Liverpool’s once-deep defensive options could be significantly depleted within two seasons. Identifying and acquiring a long-term successor this summer would be a proactive step rather than a reactive one.
Strategic Recommendation
With a proven professional track record and strong potential upside, Mosquera represents a low-risk, high-reward opportunity in a market where quality centre-backs are increasingly difficult to secure affordably. Should his form at the U21 Euros continue, his price and visibility will only increase.
Liverpool would be wise to accelerate discussions and potentially move ahead of the competition before wider interest drives his value beyond optimal range.