Liverpool still haven’t ruled out the idea of signing Torino centre-back Perr Schuurs in the summer transfer window, according to a new update.
There has been an understandable level of focus on the Reds’ midfield rebuild in recent months, but the defence has been neglected up until this point.
Last season, Jurgen Klopp’s side really struggled at the back, with Virgil van Dijk short of his absolute best, Ibrahima Konate injured a fair amount, and both Joel Matip and Joe Gomez performing poorly too often.
With Liverpool now adopting a new system, in which Trent Alexander-Arnold often drifts into midfield and Andy Robertson slots in as a third centre-back, a new signing to rival the latter for minutes could be needed.
Sporting CP youngster Goncalo Inacio was touted as an option but has since signed a new deal with the Portuguese side, while Schuurs has also been linked with a move.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool are still believed to be “working on a left-sided centre-back” this summer, with Klopp keen on providing competition for places and adding more depth.
Schuurs is seen as a “reasonably priced option” for the Reds, as they look to hopefully bring in one more defender and midfielder apiece before the transfer window closes at the end of the month.
Our thoughts on the latest Schuurs to Liverpool update…
It is essential that Liverpool’s back-line has that little bit of extra quality added to it before deadline day, with Matip and Gomez no longer feeling like genuinely reliable options, as used to be the case.
Admittedly, Schuurs isn’t left-footed, so wouldn’t necessarily be the perfect option in terms of balance, but he can play as a left-sided central defender, and is a footballer with great potential.
At just 23 years of age, the Dutchman has been a strong signing for Torino since arriving from Ajax last year, proving to be someone who thrives both in and out of possession. He averaged 3.2 clearances and 1.7 tackles per game in Serie A in 2022/23, as well as completing 88.2% of his passes in the competition.
Schuurs could come in as a direct backup to Van Dijk, slotting in at times to give his compatriot a breather, and he could even play in a back-three in Robertson’s role, should the Scot continue to be hit-and-miss in his tweaked position.
