Liverpool are monitoring Napoli defender Sam Beukema ahead of the summer transfer window, with manager Arne Slot a long-standing admirer of the Dutch centre-back. According to sources with knowledge of the situation, Beukema is among the defensive options being assessed by the club's recruitment team, led by sporting director Richard Hughes, as they look to strengthen their squad depth.
Slot's interest in the 25-year-old dates back to his tenure at Feyenoord, where he attempted to sign Beukema from Go Ahead Eagles. TEAMtalk reports that Slot has communicated his admiration for the player internally at Liverpool. Beukema has been a regular for Napoli this season, making 30 appearances across Serie A and the Champions League, establishing himself at a high level after his move from AZ Alkmaar in 2023.
Any potential deal would face significant hurdles, however. Beukema is under contract with the Italian club until 2030, and Napoli are not actively looking to sell. Sources indicate the Serie A side would only consider offers in excess of £30 million, a substantial fee for a player not explicitly on the market. Liverpool's interest is understood to be at an exploratory stage as they compile their list of targets.
The potential move is set against the backdrop of Liverpool's ongoing efforts to secure the future of Ibrahima Konate. The club are confident of agreeing a new contract with the French defender, whose current deal is set to expire. With Virgil van Dijk now 34, Liverpool are planning for a longer-term transition in the heart of their defence, seeking reliable options to compete and provide cover.
The presence of several Dutch players at Anfield, including Van Dijk, Cody Gakpo, and Ryan Gravenberch, is viewed as a factor that could help Beukema adapt should a transfer materialise. Liverpool are also set to welcome young defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes this summer, while academy prospect Giovani Leoni is recovering from injury.
While a deal for Beukema remains speculative and complex due to Napoli's stance and the player's long contract, Slot's personal endorsement ensures he will be a name linked with Liverpool in the coming months. The club's recruitment strategy appears focused on identifying a centre-back who fits Slot's tactical profile and can contribute immediately, with the Dutch connection providing a plausible narrative for the interest.
