Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has been dealt a major blow as defender Joel Matip has been ruled out for the rest of the season with a ruptured ACL injury. The 32-year-old is also out of contract this summer, which means Liverpool was already in the market to strengthen their defense for the long term.
With Matip’s injury, Klopp may be forced to dip into the transfer market for a new center-half. One player on their radar is Wolfsburg defender Maxence Lacroix. The 23-year-old has been in impressive form in the Bundesliga and could be available for a fee of £25m-plus. However, Liverpool aims to negotiate for any player who has two years remaining on their current deal.
Lacroix is known for his commanding presence in defense, a characteristic that Klopp values in his players. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is another defender Liverpool rates highly, but the chances of Palace selling him next month are slim.
While Joe Gomez and youngster Jarell Quansah have returned to full fitness, Klopp understands the importance of having depth in defense, especially as Liverpool competes on multiple fronts. With Matip’s absence, Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are likely to be the first-choice defensive partnership, but reinforcements are necessary.
Liverpool aims to avoid any defensive issues as the fixtures mount up, and Klopp may pursue new defensive options in the upcoming transfer window to provide the necessary depth and competition within the squad. As the summer approaches, securing a reliable and talented center-half will be crucial for Liverpool’s long-term defensive stability.
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