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Liverpool have shifted focus in the transfer market as the winter window approaches. For the past few seasons, the Reds have tracked certain defensive targets closely, particularly those capable of stepping into the Premier League at the highest level.
Injuries, inconsistent playing time, and questions over long-term fitness have forced Arne Slot and the Liverpool scouting team to reassess priorities.
In recent weeks, attention has turned elsewhere. Liverpool are now exploring other options for defensive reinforcements as the search for a reliable centre-back becomes increasingly urgent.
The Premier League remains as competitive as ever, and with the Champions League on the horizon, the Reds cannot afford to gamble on players whose availability is uncertain. Clubs across Europe have been on high alert, and Liverpool must balance ambition with caution when considering transfers mid-season.
Dutch centre-back Sven Botman, currently at Newcastle United, who was heavily linked with Liverpool, joined Newcastle on a five-year deal from Lille in June 2022 for €40 million. Before that, he had built his reputation in France with Lille, making 62 appearances and scoring 3 goals.
Earlier in his career, he played for Jong Ajax, appearing 28 times and scoring twice, and spent a season on loan at Heerenveen, adding 26 appearances and 2 goals.
Botman has also made his mark in notable fixtures. He scored his first goal for Newcastle in a record 8–0 away win over Sheffield United in September 2023.
Unfortunately, injuries have hampered his progress, including a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in March 2024 that sidelined him for six to nine months. He made his return in December 2025 in a Premier League 2 fixture against Chelsea’s development squad.
According to Chronicle Live, “Liverpool are understood to have cooled their interest in injury-stricken Newcastle United centre-back Sven Botman. The Dutchman has been tracked by the Reds in recent seasons, but the former Ajax youngster’s injury issues have resulted in the Premier League champions taking a look at other targets.”
The club is now targeting players who can contribute immediately, ensuring the Reds remain competitive across all competitions. Botman’s career stats and pedigree remain impressive, but at this moment, consistency is the priority for Liverpool.
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