Liverpool Exploring Defensive Market Options
Liverpool’s centre-back picture is increasingly under scrutiny and the latest reporting from DaveOCKOP highlights how proactive the club has become in monitoring defensive reinforcements. With Giovanni Leoni ruled out for the season after his ACL injury in September and Ibrahima Konate approaching the final months of his contract, the club’s recruitment department is accelerating its evaluation of available options. As one senior source put it, “Liverpool faces the genuine prospect of losing such an important player on a free transfer next summer.”
Konate Uncertainty Driving Market Activity
Konate’s situation remains delicate. Interest from Real Madrid continues to “lurk” in the background, and the absence of progress on a contract extension has prompted Liverpool to expand their shortlist. DaveOCKOP previously confirmed the club’s interest in Nico Schlotterbeck and added that “dialogue has been positive” with the Borussia Dortmund defender’s representatives. Internally, Schlotterbeck is viewed as a profile that aligns naturally with the Arne Slot system because of his passing range, technical comfort and Bundesliga pedigree.
Diomande Added to the Shortlist
Although Marc Guehi remains admired and there is confidence that he “will eventually become a Reds player,” the club has not placed all its chips on one outcome. DaveOCKOP reports that Sporting Lisbon’s Ousmane Diomande has been identified as another live option. The outlet states, “Ousmane Diomande of Sporting CP is as a name under consideration,” and his data profile supports why Liverpool are taking a closer look.
Strategic Scenarios For Summer 2026
Crystal Palace pushed hard for Diomande last summer with talks reaching values around £40 to 50 million. Liverpool’s interest is described as less aggressive, but his inclusion on the shortlist reflects the strategic nature of the scouting process. Should Konate depart and Guehi not be secured, the possibility of signing both Schlotterbeck and Diomande has not been ruled out. If Guehi does arrive, the expectation is that only one of the continental defenders will be pursued, with the Dortmund centre-back currently preferred.
Our View, Anfield Index Analysis
Liverpool supporters will recognise the pattern here. When the club senses instability in a key position, the recruitment team widens the net and works through multiple parallel scenarios. The mention that “dialogue has been positive” with Schlotterbeck is particularly encouraging, because his profile feels like a natural fit. Fans have long highlighted the need for another progressive passer at centre-back.
Diomande feels like the wildcard option. The numbers are excellent and his rise in Portugal has been impressive, but Liverpool typically prefers a longer sample size at top five league level. That said, two Team of the Year selections and strong continental experience at just 21 years of age suggest he has significant long term upside.
The key variable remains Konate. If he leaves on a free, supporters will expect a strong and immediate response, not a developmental signing. Schlotterbeck feels ready made for that responsibility. Diomande feels more like a high ceiling addition who could grow alongside the existing core.
Guehi’s role in all this adds intrigue. If he arrives, the expectation among fans will be that Liverpool secure one of Schlotterbeck or Diomande alongside him to future proof the defence. Given the club’s history of operating decisively once the market opens, supporters should prepare for a busy and potentially transformative summer window.
