Liverpool one step CLOSER to Marc Guehi after centre-back contract offer | OneFootball

Liverpool's centre-back uncertainty

The club are set to receive a £30m boost to the coffers through the sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen - a move which leaves a slot free for a new centre-back.

Factor in the uncertainty around Ibrahima Konate and the need for a new central defender could become all the more pressing.

Jarrad Branthwaite, Everton’s £70m-rated stopper, has been suggested as a potential incoming deal. The 23-year-old is only under contract for the Toffees until 2027 - thereby allowing potentially interested clubs to steal in and make a deal.

But that seems unlikely now with Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas now reporting that Everton are close to wrapping up a new contract for Branthwaite.

Everton finalising contract for Branthwaite

“Everton close to finalising a new contract with Jarrad Branthwaite,” he wrote on X.

“Still some elements to agree but expected to re-sign for the club, possibly next wk.”

The player signing an extended deal doesn’t lessen Liverpool’s need for a new centre-back and there is no shortage of contenders.

The likes of Nathan Zeze, Cristhian Mosquera, Joel Ordonez, Jorrel Hato, Ousmane Diomande and Levi Colwill have all been listed among the potential arrivals.

But perhaps one name now stands out above all others with Branthwaite seemingly off the menu.