Liverpool have submitted an offer worth approximately £24 million to sign Napoli defender Sam Beukema, according to reports from Italy. The bid, reported by AreaNapoli, comes after manager Arne Slot reportedly identified the Dutch centre-back as a key summer target for the Anfield club. The report suggests Napoli boss Antonio Conte would not oppose a sale at that price, describing a move to Liverpool as "absolutely possible."
This pursuit follows earlier reporting from TEAMtalk that Slot had urged Liverpool's sporting director, Richard Hughes, to secure Beukema's signature. The 27-year-old, who joined Napoli from AZ Alkmaar in 2024, has established himself as a regular in Serie A, making 30 league appearances this season. His performances have reportedly made a strong impression on Slot, who is seeking to bolster his defensive options ahead of the new campaign.
The move comes in the context of a challenging season for Liverpool, who are set to finish the 2025/26 campaign trophyless and outside the Premier League's top three, despite significant investment the previous summer. The club's defence has been identified as an area requiring reinforcement, with Virgil van Dijk now 34 and his contract expiring in 2027, while Ibrahima Konate has experienced inconsistent form.
Liverpool have already agreed deals for young defenders Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet, and Konate is expected to sign a new contract. However, the potential addition of Beukema represents a move for a player in his prime with experience in a major European league. His profile offers a ready-made competitor for a starting role, providing Slot with increased depth and quality.
Beukema is not the only centre-back linked with Liverpool, with Sporting Lisbon's Goncalo Inacio also mentioned as a potential target by sources speaking to Football Insider. Analyst Pete O'Rourke suggested Inacio could be an "ideal replacement" for Van Dijk in the long term. However, the concrete offer for Beukema indicates Slot's immediate focus may lie elsewhere in the market.
The reported £24 million fee represents a potential profit for Napoli on a player they signed less than two years ago. For Liverpool, it signifies a targeted approach to addressing a clear need, with Slot seemingly keen to imprint his vision on the squad after a difficult first season. The club's activity suggests a busy summer lies ahead as they aim to rebuild and challenge for major honours once more.
