Liverpool Scouting Giant Defender Ahead of Potential January Move

Liverpool appear to be widening their January defensive search, and attention has now turned to Galatasaray’s Wilfried Singo, a player whose giant profile blends athleticism, versatility and a notable aerial presence. With Arne Slot navigating a season complicated by early defensive injuries, the recruitment team is exploring options that can offer flexibility across the back line.

Rising Interest in Singo

Reports from Turkey indicate that Liverpool scouts were present for Galatasaray’s 3-0 win over Ajax in the Champions League. That match proved costly for the Dutch side, who dismissed Johnny Heitinga soon after, and valuable for Singo, whose performance earned firm admiration from the watching contingent. The same scouts are expected to travel again to monitor him in upcoming European fixtures against Union Saint Gilloise and AS Monaco.

Galatasaray acquired Singo from Monaco for around €30m, approximately £26.4m, and structured his deal with a release clause set at roughly double that figure. With Manchester United and Arsenal also monitoring him, interest is likely to escalate as the January window approaches.

Singo’s Qualities in Detail

Liverpool supporters already had a close look at the Ivory Coast international earlier this season when Galatasaray claimed victory against the Reds. In that contest he won eight duels, three tackles, four clearances and two interceptions as recorded by Sofascore. His contributions in the 3-0 win over Ajax further underlined his upward trajectory, with seven duels won, a perfect dribble completion rate, a 92 percent pass accuracy, three tackles and three interceptions.

Crucially, his skill set mirrors aspects of Joe Gomez’s development. Singo can operate at right back or centre back without disrupting a team’s structure, and his comfort in both roles increases his appeal to a side that values positional flexibility.

FBref data highlights how competitive he has become compared with other centre backs across Europe’s major leagues. Over the past year, he has been among the top one percent of full backs in interceptions at 1.92 per match, clearances at 5.61 and aerial duels won at 2.3. His earlier years with Torino showcased his pace, strength and dribbling according to The Cult of Calcio, attributes that now complement a more refined defensive instinct.

Market Dynamics and Liverpool’s Needs

The fee required to prise him away from Istanbul will not be modest. Galatasaray are aware of his rising valuation and interest from several major clubs will only intensify if his Champions League form continues. Liverpool have already experienced frustration after injury setbacks to Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni, as well as the collapse of the late move for Marc Guehi. Strengthening the defensive department is now a priority.

Given the volume of fixtures and the reliance on a fluid back line under Slot, a January addition appears logical. Singo’s ability to influence matches physically and technically, along with his positional range, places him firmly on Liverpool’s radar. With European performances attracting growing attention, this is a recruitment battle that could gather significant pace.