It is no secret Liverpool want at least one new defender, although some moves will have to wait until the summer due to how complex they might be.
The Reds desperately wanted a new centre-back in the summer and came close with Marc Guehi, but this collapsed at the very last minute.
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Virgil van Dijk lifts the Premier League trophy surrounded by Liverpool players on the final day of the 2024/25 season at Anfield.
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This proved to be a big mistake as their defence has struggled this season, which is why they are looking at adding to this department over the next few windows.
The summer is where they could go bold, though, and make a statement signing, with it looking slightly more likely given that Alessandro Bastoni’s preference has emerged.
Alessandro Bastoni open to leaving Inter Milan in 2026
With Ibrahima Konate potentially leaving on a free transfer and Virgil van Dijk’s contract running down, Liverpool need to go big with any replacements.
Right now, there are not many bigger than Inter Milan’s Bastoni, with the 26-year-old one of the world’s best.
Liverpool have been keeping an eye on him and according to TEAMtalk, Bastoni himself could be open to leaving Inter in the summer.
Alessandro Bastoni warms up ahead of Inter Milan's Serie A match against Torino
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“Alessandro is happy at Inter, and in Italy, but at 26, there is the belief he might look to try his hand abroad,” a source told them.
“He is at the top of his game, and not many in the world currently compare to him. 2026 is going to be a big year for him.”
Bastoni could cost upwards of £80m, perhaps even closer to £100m, showing just how highly rated he is, but if anyone could replace someone like van Dijk, it is him.
Liverpool still need Marc Guehi in January
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Although Oliver Glasner tipped Guehi to stay until the summer, Liverpool still need to try and get him in January due to how many teams will try and sign him on a free.
Getting him ahead of the biggest teams who can pay more money seems unlikely, so their best chance is to pay a decent-sized transfer fee mid-season.
Liverpool need multiple additions at the back so this would not stop them from moving for Bastoni later down the line, while also providing cover for the remainder of the season.
The Reds still have a lot to play for too so Guehi might be tempted, with there still a possibility he could get some silverware should he move.
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