“If Virgil signs, Konaté will follow” – Liverpool’s Defensive Future Examined | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Defensive Shake-Up: What Lies Ahead for Goalkeepers and Defenders?

Liverpool’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in recent years, with defensive and goalkeeping changes on the horizon. Dave Davis, speaking on The Transfer Show for Anfield Index, outlined several potential moves that could reshape the Reds’ backline under new manager Arne Slot. From the future of Alisson Becker to key centre-back decisions, here’s what we know.

Alisson Becker: Big Decision Looms

Alisson Becker has been a pillar of Liverpool’s success, but his future remains uncertain. As Davis explained, “We want to be clear about what we’ve heard at Anfield Index… the information we were having was that Alisson had told Liverpool he was considering his future.” This revelation explains why Liverpool have moved swiftly to secure Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia.

While Alisson’s departure is not confirmed, Davis added, “If he is to depart… he departs as the best keeper in the world. It would be with a heavy heart but with well-wishes at the same time, wouldn’t there?”

Should Becker leave, the Reds may need a radical goalkeeping restructure.

Caoimhín Kelleher’s Future: Time to Move?

Liverpool’s long-serving backup, Caoimhín Kelleher, has made no secret of his desire to be a first-choice goalkeeper. Davis noted, “This is a player who’s done numerous interviews… he said, ‘I want to be a number one, I want to move.’”

Given Alisson’s ongoing injury struggles, Kelleher stepped in frequently this season, but Davis was unequivocal about the likelihood of his departure: “The entire world would be absolutely mystified if Kelleher is still at the club… He’s not going to sign an extension, is he? Let’s be honest.”

With Jakub Ojrzynski still in the frame and Mamardashvili arriving, the goalkeeper hierarchy is set for a shake-up.

Photo IMAGO

Virgil van Dijk: No Question, Just Renew

Liverpool’s captain remains irreplaceable. Davis stressed the importance of extending his contract, stating, “Virgil has to be signed. There’s no debate about that, there’s no issue whatsoever. It’s just got to be done.”

Beyond his leadership, Van Dijk’s partnership with Ibrahima Konaté has been described as “the best in world football”. Davis argued that if Van Dijk stays, Konaté is likely to follow: “I honestly believe that if Virgil signs, Konaté will follow.”

Liverpool appear determined to maintain their defensive core, but contract negotiations will be key.

Ibrahima Konaté: Interest Growing

While Liverpool want to keep their defensive duo intact, Konaté’s situation is being watched closely. As Davis put it, “You’ve all seen the rumours, haven’t you? That Liverpool have offered him a contract. He’s talked about it in a press conference… at the same time, the latest rumours are that clubs are very interested.”

With the Frenchman regarded as one of the top defenders in the game, Liverpool will need to move quickly to secure his long-term future.

Joe Gomez: Decade at Anfield, But Time To Move On?

Joe Gomez’s versatility has made him invaluable to Liverpool, but his future remains uncertain. “Joe Gomez is 28 years old, he’s an England international, he’s experienced… someone tell me if I’m wrong, but I think it’ll be 10 years this summer since he joined.”

His ability to cover at centre-back and both full-back positions has been a major asset, yet Davis suggested he may be seeking a fresh start: “Joe Gomez is too good to be a third-choice anything for Liverpool, that’s a fact.”

A move closer to London has been speculated, and his departure could leave a significant gap in Liverpool’s defensive depth.

Photo: IMAGO

Left-Back Changes: Robertson Stays, Tsimikas Leaves?

The left-back situation also remains a hot topic. Davis acknowledged the debate over Andy Robertson’s future but expressed confidence in the Scot remaining at Anfield: “I suspect Robbo stays. I genuinely mean that.”

However, he was less optimistic about Kostas Tsimikas: “Very little doubt in my mind that Kostas Tsimikas will leave Liverpool.” His limited minutes this season suggest he is not part of the long-term plans.

Defensive Reinforcements Expected

Liverpool are expected to bring in at least one new defender. Davis stated, “I 100% expect a centre-back to come in. Now, people will talk— is that a Quansah type of youth? Is it a senior centre-back? A little bit unsure of that, but a centre-back will come in.”

With departures looming and question marks over contracts, Liverpool’s defensive setup could look very different by the start of next season.