By Donna Staunton

As Liverpool FC prepares for the upcoming 2025/26 season, one of the club’s most pressing concerns is the central defensive position. With question marks over the long-term durability of Ibrahima Konaté and the form of Joe Gomez, reinforcements are needed to support Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool’s new sporting structure under Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, alongside head coach Arne Slot, emphasises data-driven scouting and tactical adaptability. With that in mind, here’s a look at centre-back options that could realistically strengthen Liverpool’s defensive line.

Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
Age: 25
Nationality: English
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £30-40 million

Why he fits: Guéhi is comfortable in a high line, with Liverpool relying on centre-backs who can defend large spaces behind them, his pace and anticipation help him cover these situations without panicking. Guéhi is calm under pressure, good at short passing into midfield, and capable of switching play, perfect for Liverpool’s build-up from the back. Already proven in the league with Crystal Palace, he wouldn’t face the adaptation risk of an overseas signing.

Giovanni Leoni (Parma)
Age: 18
Nationality: Italian
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £30-40 million

Why he fits: Even at 18, Leoni shows strong positioning and speed over distance, which is vital for Liverpool’s press and recover defensive shape. He is confident stepping out with the ball, breaking opposition lines. Leoni reads situations early and uses good timing, rather than just raw physicality. He doesn’t panic when pressed, agile and quick enough to recover if beaten, also good strength when competing aerially. While he’s not English, signing him young means he could qualify as ‘homegrown’ (Homegrown Rule) after three years in England before age 21, which would help squad registration.

Konstantinos Koulierakis (Wolfsburg)
Age: 21
Nationality: Greek
Foot: Left
Estimated Price: 35-45 million

Why he fits: Koulierakis has the height and strength to compete in aerial duels, important for defending set pieces and long balls, which Liverpool values. Koulierakis is an aggressive, but intelligent defender, combining physicality with good timing in tackles and interceptions. He can play both left and right-sided centre-back roles, giving flexibility. He is still very young, but has already shown maturity beyond his years in top-flight leagues. Koulierakis is a combination of physical strength, speed, composure and youth, and also at a lower cost than other possible options.

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Gonçalo Inácio (Sporting CP)
Age: 23
Nationality: Portuguese
Foot: Left
Estimated Price: £50-60 million

Why he fits: Inácio has been on Liverpool’s radar for multiple windows and fits the profile of a modern, left-footed ball-playing centre-back. His composure under pressure, aerial prowess, and ability to play out from the back make him an ideal long-term successor to Van Dijk. Slot’s system, which encourages structured possession, would benefit from Inácio’s progressive passing and intelligent positioning.

Antonio Silva (Benfica)
Age: 21
Nationality: Portuguese
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £60-70 million

Why he fits: Silva is one of Europe’s brightest young defenders. Despite his age, he reads the game exceptionally well and maintains high concentration levels. His maturity, clean tackling, and tactical discipline make him a top-tier talent. Though expensive, he could be the cornerstone of Liverpool’s defence for the next decade.

Ousmane Diomande (Sporting CP)
Age: 21
Nationality: Ivorian
Foot: Right
Estimated Price: £45-60 million

Why he fits: A physical specimen with explosive pace, Diomande would add athleticism and recovery speed to Liverpool’s backline. He excels in one-on-one duels and is adept at carrying the ball forward. Though raw in some aspects, his ceiling is extremely high. A rotation role could allow him to develop under Van Dijk’s mentorship.

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Final Thoughts

Liverpool’s transfer approach will need to balance long-term potential with short-term readiness. With Van Dijk entering the twilight of his career and Slot requiring defenders comfortable in transition and possession, the Reds will likely prioritise athletic, technically sound, and tactically intelligent centre-backs.

Given the club’s recent history of smart recruitment, fans can be optimistic that the right profile will be brought in—not just a name, but a fit for the system.