Liverpool are currently negotiating a move for their ‘top-class’ player, who is open to a deadline-bound move to Anfield.
Reds keep an eye on new signings despite Newcastle’s win
There has been a lot of speculation over Arne Slott’s future in recent weeks, but the Dutchman appeared to be undefeated in the dressing room, helping his side to a 4-1 Premier League win over Newcastle United on Saturday.
Slott was particularly impressed with Ibrahim Konate’s performance, saying after the match: “He saw all the problems we had defensively and called me earlier this week and said, ‘I want to come back and help the team against Newcastle.’
“He came back on Wednesday and practiced with us twice, and I think he not only scored a goal but played a great game today. The fans were really appreciative throughout the game.”
As the manager points out, Conor Bradley, Giovanni Leoni, Joe Gomez and Jeremy Frimpong all missed the game against Newcastle due to injury, leaving his defensive options short in recent weeks.
It therefore makes sense to bring in another defender before the February 2nd transfer deadline, with Liverpool currently in talks to sign Sunderland defender Lutcharel Geertruida, who is currently on loan from RB Leipzig.
According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, RB Leipzig are ready to give the green light and a verbal agreement has now been reached, with Geertruida keen to move to Anfield.
The Reds are prepared to sign the defender on a loan deal and there are indications that he could be a solid addition to the squad in the slot.
£86m release clause: Liverpool are tracking teenage forward wanted by four other PL clubs
He’s a future star.
‘Top class’ Gertruida impressing at Sunderland
Journalist Josh Bunting has certainly been impressed with the Dutchman’s performances for the Black Cats this season, praising X in October.
The Dutch international has been a key player for Sunderland, having appeared in 19 games, making 17 appearances in the Premier League, although he has been off the bench in the last two games.
While this is perhaps a bit of a worrying sign, some of the attacking performances the £85,000-a-week ace has produced at Feyenoord have been more encouraging and should attract attention during the 2023-24 season.
So, with Liverpool struggling with injury problems, bringing in Heertruda could make sense, at least as a stopgap deal until the summer.
