Liverpool are evaluating options to strengthen their defence following a recent injury to Joe Gomez, with Chelsea’s Josh Acheampong among three players under consideration, according to a report. New Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola has acknowledged the need for defensive reinforcements, stating the team is “really thin” in those positions and actively seeking solutions.
The situation has been compounded by the departure of Andy Robertson, whose contract expired this summer, and Ibrahima Konate’s move to Real Madrid on a free transfer. Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni are both currently sidelined with long-term injuries, further highlighting the need for cover. Gomez sustained a muscle problem during a pre-season friendly against Sunderland, being substituted after just eight minutes of play.
Alongside Acheampong, Liverpool are also monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt’s Nnamdi Collins and RB Leipzig’s Lutsharel Geertruida. Liverpool previously made an enquiry for Acheampong in June, with the player reportedly open to a move to secure more playing time. However, Chelsea’s new manager Xabi Alonso views the 20-year-old as a key part of his plans and is reluctant to let him leave.
Securing Acheampong would likely require a significant bid from Liverpool, given Alonso’s stance. Collins and Geertruida may present more attainable targets, with both capable of playing in multiple defensive positions. Collins has reportedly changed agents to facilitate a potential move to the Premier League, with Frankfurt seeking a fee of €40 million (£34m). Geertruida, previously a target under Arne Slot, is available for €25 million (£21m) after returning to Leipzig from a loan spell at Sunderland.
Separately, reports indicate that agents representing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior have been in contact with both Liverpool and Arsenal, though the nature of those discussions remains unclear.
