After a positive start to the season, Liverpool have recently suffered two consecutive losses in the Premier League against Crystal Palace and Chelsea. It raises a significant question among fans when it comes to defending their title if similar performances continue in the future.
Although the Reds have synced themselves smoothly under Arne Slot’s leadership, following the departure of Jurgen Klopp, sudden injuries at the defensive end might need some solutions. Giovanni Leoni has been sidelined due to an ACL injury. Ibrahim Konate is believed to be dealing with an issue as well.
So, Liverpool are in need of adding depth to bolster the backline. It looks like the Premier League champions have eyed a centre-back option from Sporting CP.
Liverpool Eyeing Sporting CP Defender Amid Injury Crisis
According to Fichajes, Liverpool are willing to make a move for Ousmane Diomande of Sporting CP during the winter transfer window.
The Ivory Coast international has emerged as a prolific defender in Portugal and could be an excellent alternative to Konate besides Virgil van Dijk. The 21-year-old has strong physical presence and technical ability, which could strengthen the depth in the defence.
He has a release clause set at €80 million but it is believed that Sporting CP could be open to a much smaller transfer fee, with the Ivorian’s contract running out in the summer of 2027.
So far, the Reds. along with other notable clubs. have also set their interest on Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace as he being nearing his expiry of his contract
Pairing a strong player alongside Van Dijk is of utmost necessity at this juncture. It is expected that Liverpool will make a move in January for a centre-back, after narrowly missing out on a move for Guehi in the summer, even though everything had already been agreed.
Ankan Bhowmick