Report: Liverpool Scouting €30m La Liga Defender Ahead of Potential January Move | OneFootball

La Liga Scouting Trip: A Success for Liverpool Despite Sevilla’s Setback

Liverpool’s scouting mission to observe Loic Bade during Sevilla’s heavy defeat against Barcelona proved fruitful, reinforcing their interest in the French defender despite his team’s 5-1 loss. Spanish sports news outlet AS reported that Liverpool are keen on Bade as a long-term defensive solution.

Bade Impresses Amidst Defeat

Sevilla may have suffered a resounding defeat at the hands of Barcelona, but Loic Bade emerged with his reputation enhanced. Described by AS as “the best of his team in the defensive department,” Bade demonstrated his prowess with an assist that turned heads. His pinpoint 60-yard pass to Stanis Idumbo, who subsequently scored, highlighted his vision and skill, attributes that have kept him on Liverpool’s radar.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite the unfavourable scoreline, Bade’s performance did not go unnoticed. AS emphasized that he remains a primary target for major clubs, with Liverpool now stepping up their interest. The Reds are reportedly looking to rejuvenate their defensive lineup, viewing the 24-year-old as a potential successor to Virgil van Dijk.

Liverpool’s Transfer Strategy

While Liverpool’s interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah is known, they face stiff competition from Inter Milan. This has led them to consider other options like Bade and Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio. With Sporting known for demanding premium prices, Bade, who has a more affordable €30 million release clause, appears a more feasible acquisition.

AS has highlighted that although Bade could have moved last summer, potential deals did not materialize. Now, with Sevilla open to negotiations, Liverpool could secure his services for a reduced fee, a crucial factor given the financial constraints many clubs face.

Previous Stints and Future Prospects

Bade’s previous loan spell at Nottingham Forest in England was not as fruitful as expected, but his subsequent development in Spain marks him as one of La Liga’s top defensive talents. If Bade joins Liverpool, he is expected to initially play a rotational role, particularly if Van Dijk remains at the club.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool also anticipates that Bade could eventually form a robust defensive partnership with Ibrahima Konate, preparing for a future without their current defensive stalwart.

Market Movements and Financial Insights

The transfer market dynamics also play a significant role in Liverpool’s pursuit of Bade. With Bayern Munich also showing interest, Liverpool find themselves in a competitive position to negotiate for the young defender. The reduced price tag of €30 million, down from his €60 million release clause, reflects Sevilla’s willingness to facilitate a transfer, potentially due to their own financial needs.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As a Liverpool supporter, the prospect of Loic Bade joining the Reds is an exciting one, especially given the team’s need for a fresh, reliable force at the back. His performance against Barcelona, despite Sevilla’s heavy loss, suggests he has the mental fortitude and technical skills to thrive under pressure, qualities that Liverpool values highly.

With Arne Slot at the helm, known for his strategic insight and focus on nurturing talent, Bade could develop into a key player for Liverpool. His potential partnership with Konate is particularly promising, hinting at a solid defensive backbone for the team’s future.

Moreover, the financial aspect of this transfer is appealing. In today’s inflated market, securing a player of Bade’s calibre for €30 million is a steal, especially when competitors like Bayern Munich are also in the fray. This move could prove to be a shrewd piece of business for Liverpool, aligning with our ambitions to build a competitive squad capable of challenging on all fronts.