Sophia
Liverpool faces a significant challenge as a crucial January transfer window approaches. The recent injury to promising young defender Giovanni Leoni has exacerbated existing concerns in the Reds’ backline, forcing manager Arne Slot to reassess his defensive options. With the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cup competitions all in contention, reinforcements are paramount.
Leoni, an 18-year-old summer signing from Parma, suffered a suspected ACL injury during Liverpool’s Carabao Cup third-round victory over Southampton. This devastating blow is expected to sideline him for the majority of the 2025-26 campaign, halting his development and leaving Liverpool with just three senior central defenders: Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez. While emergency options like Andy Robertson, Wataru Endo, and Ryan Gravenberch exist, a long-term solution is vital.
Here are six centre-backs Liverpool could target in the winter market, ranging from proven Premier League talent to exciting young prospects and a familiar name that almost joined previously.
Marc Guéhi: The Obvious Choice
The most straightforward January recruit appears to be Marc Guéhi. Liverpool came agonizingly close to securing the Crystal Palace captain’s signature in the final moments of the summer transfer window. Guéhi even underwent a medical with the Reds and filmed a farewell video for the Eagles. However, Palace’s inability to find a suitable replacement led them to pull the plug on the deal. With Leoni’s long-term absence, Liverpool is highly likely to rekindle their interest in the England international.
Given Guéhi’s contract expires next summer, a cut-price deal with Palace should be achievable. While other clubs may also pursue him, Liverpool remains his most probable destination, especially considering their previous strong interest.
Ronald Araújo: A Barcelona Star on the Radar
Leoni’s injury isn’t Liverpool’s only defensive concern. Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract also expires next summer, continues to be linked with Real Madrid. The Reds must prepare for a potential future without the 26-year-old, who would be incredibly difficult to replace. One name mentioned as a possible successor is Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo.
Despite signing a new contract with Barça in January, which included a £54 million release clause to protect his transfer value, Araújo’s long-term future in Catalonia is uncertain. The Athletic has reported that while he is happy in Barcelona, he would be tempted by a move to a “top Premier League side.” As current Premier League champions, Liverpool could present a compelling offer. The 26-year-old is an elite talent capable of making an immediate impact on Merseyside.
Gonçalo Inácio: The Long-Linked Prospect
Few transfer windows pass without Sporting CP’s Gonçalo Inácio being linked with Liverpool. The 24-year-old left-footed defender has long been considered one of Europe’s most promising talents, playing a crucial role in Sporting’s resurgence under Ruben Amorim. His impressive performances have earned him 17 caps for the Portuguese national team.
While not the quickest, Inácio possesses commendable physicality and an impressive reading of the game. He is also a significant goal threat, scoring four or more goals for Sporting in each of his last four full seasons. A blockbuster move feels inevitable for Inácio, and Liverpool would be wise to consider him this winter.
Joel Ordóñez: The Ecuadorian Gem
Prior to Leoni’s arrival, Joel Ordóñez was a name on Liverpool’s radar for young central defensive targets. The 21-year-old has shone for Club Brugge over the past three seasons, having been scouted from Ecuador’s renowned Independiente del Valle academy, which has produced talents like Moisés Caicedo, Piero Hincapié, and Willian Pacho.
Ordóñez has adapted impressively to European football, becoming a regular for Club Brugge. He was instrumental in their Champions League last-16 run last season and has amassed 88 appearances for the Belgian outfit. The 6’2″ Ecuador international boasts an impressive passing range and strong defensive contributions. The main question remains whether he is ready for the immediate step up to Liverpool’s demanding environment.
Murillo: Premier League Proven Potential
Murillo could be a dream addition for Liverpool. The 23-year-old Brazilian arrived at Nottingham Forest in 2023 with a stellar reputation from Corinthians and has swiftly lived up to his immense potential. He made 36 appearances in his debut term and 39 last season, forming an excellent partnership with Nikola Milenković.
Murillo was integral to Forest’s European qualification last season, with the club’s robust defensive record underpinning their seventh-place Premier League finish. Alongside his more aerially dominant partner, the Brazil international has impressed with his anticipation, physicality, and ball-playing abilities. While Chelsea has shown interest and his reported £70 million price tag is steep, his proven Premier League experience and significant potential for further improvement could make him a gamble worth taking.
Castello Lukeba: Konaté’s Compatriot and Potential Heir
Castello Lukeba, another French talent, could well be Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term heir. The 22-year-old rose to prominence at Lyon before moving to RB Leipzig in 2023, where he has elevated his game. The powerful and speedy defender has become a mainstay in Leipzig’s defense, demonstrating impressive consistency during a challenging period for the German club.
Lukeba’s apparent £78 million release clause highlights his glowing potential, though Leipzig might be willing to negotiate for less. Despite his young age, he possesses an impressive understanding of the game and is renowned for his excellent distribution, with his left-footedness being a significant advantage for Liverpool. The Reds have been linked with him previously, alongside Manchester United and Bayern Munich. Leoni’s injury and the uncertainty surrounding Konaté may prompt Liverpool to act on their interest this winter. The young France international represents a strong investment for the future.
