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Liverpool’s Huijsen Pursuit Could Spell Temporary Exit for Quansah

Liverpool’s defensive rebuild appears to be gathering pace, with Dean Huijsen now at the heart of Arne Slot’s summer plans. According to Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, the Reds have “once again made a strong push for Dean Huijsen in recent days” and have “presented all projects and figures” to the 19-year-old’s representatives.

The highly rated AFC Bournemouth defender has emerged as one of Europe’s top young centre-backs. With Real Madrid reportedly hesitant to recruit in that area and Chelsea advancing in their talks, Liverpool are keen not to fall behind in the race.

Newcastle United have also joined the fray, placing Huijsen among their defensive priorities. Yet it’s Liverpool’s internal reshuffle that could define this transfer battle, as Jarell Quansah’s future now appears intertwined with Huijsen’s potential arrival.

Quansah’s Role Under Threat as Slot Eyes Alternatives

While Arne Slot rates Quansah highly — he reportedly blocked an exit for the youngster last summer — this season’s selections suggest a shift in stance. Quansah has started only 11 matches in all competitions, struggling to secure regular minutes in a competitive backline.

In recent weeks, Slot has even opted to deploy Curtis Jones in a makeshift full-back role rather than turn to the 21-year-old centre-half. It’s a decision that reflects trust in Jones’s versatility, but also a lack of confidence in Quansah’s readiness for a first-team anchor role.

Sky Germany now reports that Liverpool “plan to either loan or sell Jarell Quansah” should they land Huijsen. This aligns with the BBC’s earlier assessment that the futures of Quansah, Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konaté could shape the club’s summer transfer outlook.

Potential Suitors Begin to Circle

Interest in Quansah is already materialising, with Inter Milan reportedly monitoring the situation closely. While Liverpool’s preference may be a loan — providing the youngster with minutes and maintaining long-term control — several European clubs could test the Reds’ resolve with permanent bids.

Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that he is “keeping an eye on the defender’s situation at Anfield,” adding further weight to speculation surrounding a summer move.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot’s Tactical Preferences and Long-Term Planning

Slot’s desire for a more ball-progressive centre-back may explain Liverpool’s strong interest in Huijsen. The Dutch-Spanish defender is known for his ability to step into midfield areas and dictate tempo — an asset Slot may view as essential in his evolving system.

Huijsen, despite his age, boasts top-flight experience and is attracting admiration from across Europe. Liverpool’s proactive stance, meeting the player’s camp early and preparing financial proposals, underlines how serious the club is about future-proofing its defensive line.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans are likely to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension after reading this update. On one hand, Dean Huijsen represents a potentially elite addition — a modern, technical defender with elite-level pedigree despite his tender age. His profile fits the progressive, front-foot philosophy that Arne Slot is believed to favour.

On the other hand, the idea of loaning or selling Jarell Quansah may raise eyebrows. The academy product has shown promise and has been a symbol of the club’s youth pathway, especially after a strong pre-season campaign last year. If he is allowed to leave, even temporarily, it risks halting his momentum — or worse, allowing another club to benefit from his development.

While Quansah may not yet be a guaranteed starter, many fans would argue he still deserves a greater role — particularly if Liverpool return to a schedule including Champions League football, where rotation becomes vital.

Ultimately, fans will trust that Slot, alongside sporting director Richard Hughes, will manage the transition intelligently. But if Huijsen is to arrive, it must be part of a broader, coherent plan — one that ensures young talents like Quansah are nurtured, not discarded.

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