Liverpool’s Transfer Shortlist Grows with Addition of Former Manchester City Centre-Backs
Liverpool fans eagerly await the appointment of their new manager, but regardless of who takes charge next season, it seems certain that the club will be signing a new centre-back. The Reds’ shortlist has recently expanded to include two former Manchester City defenders.
While speculation about new signings should be taken with caution until a manager is appointed, Liverpool’s scouting and recruitment team has been actively identifying potential signings and contacting agents over possible deals. The club’s structure remains intact despite the absence of a manager or sporting director.
Joel Matip, who is currently recovering from a serious ACL injury, has a contract that is set to expire. This means that Liverpool could potentially bring in another centre-back to strengthen their defensive line. Two names on the club’s shortlist are Tosin Adarabioyo from Fulham and Ko Itakura from Borussia Monchengladbach. Both players have previously been on the books at Manchester City.
Recent reports have linked Adarabioyo with a move to Anfield. His contract with Fulham is also set to run out on July 1st, which could make him an attractive option for Liverpool. However, Adarabioyo is reportedly open to staying at Craven Cottage and will decide his future at the end of the season. Fulham is said to be preparing a new offer for the 26-year-old defender. Despite this, Liverpool may still be interested in Adarabioyo due to his age, experience, and homegrown status.
Itakura is another player on Liverpool’s radar. Fabrizio Romano first mentioned the Japanese defender as a target for the Reds on New Year’s Day. Itakura has just returned from the Asian Cup after Japan’s elimination by Iran. Liverpool has reportedly scouted the 27-year-old multiple times, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg. Itakura has a release clause ranging from £8.5 million to £12.8 million.
Interestingly, both Adarabioyo and Itakura have spent time at Manchester City, although their paths barely crossed. Adarabioyo spent 17 years in City’s academy before joining Fulham in 2020, while Itakura had three years on City’s books but spent his time on loan at FC Groningen and Schalke.
In addition to Adarabioyo and Itakura, Liverpool is considering Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande as another potential centre-back option. Diomande is currently coached by Ruben Amorim, who is a candidate for the Liverpool managerial position.
Liverpool’s transfer shortlist continues to grow as the club prepares for an important summer transfer window. With the uncertainty surrounding the manager’s appointment, it remains to be seen which players will ultimately join the Reds. However, one thing is clear – Liverpool is actively searching for a new centre-back to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season.