Liverpool are interested in a defender compared to Arsenal centre-back William Saliba, who could break records when he moves
(Image credit: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Liverpool could be about to pay a French record for a young defender compared to William Saliba.
Saliba himself has drawn parallels with Reds captain Virgil van Dijk for his commanding presence, but with the Dutchman now in his 30s, Liverpool are set to be sorting a contingency plan for the future. Ibrahima Konate and Jarell Quansah have stepped up but a long-term replacement may still be needed.
Klopp's side have been linked with several left-sided centre-backs over the past year but have been given an indication that one of the finest targets their tracking will be an expensive buy.
Virgil van Dijk is in his 30s now – and an heir is being eyed (Image credit: Getty Images)
French outlet Téléfoot via GFFN have reported that 18-year-old centre-back Leny Yoro is wanted by the Merseysiders – but that he would become the most expensive defender in Ligue 1 history when he leaves Lille.
Named as one of FourFourTwo's 50 most exciting teenagers to watch this season, Yoro has emerged as one of the best young players in the world over the last few months. With Liverpool having plenty of cover at centre-back, he may be eased into the first-team over time.
GFFN notes that the Reds are also interested in Yoro’s team-mate, Jean-Clair Todibo, according to Nice-Matin. The former Barcelona star would also be an expensive purchase, however.
Leny Yoro is wanted by Europe's elite (Image credit: SEBASTIEN SALOM-GOMIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
