Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool have already bolstered their defensive ranks for the future this January with two promising centre-back signings—but a third target now appears destined for Stamford Bridge.
The Reds secured Senegalese defender Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitié FC for approximately £1 million earlier this month. The 18-year-old left-footed centre-back impressed Liverpool scouts with his performances at the U17 World Cup in Qatar, where Senegal reached the round of 32. Ndiaye joins Rob Page’s U21 squad initially but is viewed as a long-term successor to compete with the club’s senior defenders.
Austrian defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe, 17, has also agreed a deal worth a reported £2.5 million from Austria Wien, though post-Brexit regulations mean he won’t officially join until pre-season in July when he turns 18
However, Liverpool’s pursuit of Sheffield Wednesday left-back Yisa Alao appears to have stalled, with Chelsea now poised to complete the deal. The Reds submitted a mid-level six-figure bid for the 17-year-old in December, competing directly with Manchester United who also tabled an offer around £450,000.
But Chelsea have reportedly gazumped both Premier League rivals with a £600,000 bid plus significant performance-related add-ons, described as a “high six-figure upfront fee” by The Sheffield Star. The Blues are now close to finalising the transfer before the February 2 deadline.
Alao, who has made five senior appearances for Wednesday this season including starts in the FA Cup and Championship, has been presented with his first professional contract by the struggling Championship side but remains hesitant to commit amid their financial crisis. Wednesday, currently bottom of the Championship on minus-seven points following administration and an 18-point deduction, may be forced to cash in to ease their financial troubles.
While Liverpool look like they will miss out on Alao, their trio of defensive acquisition – Ndiaye and the incoming Ndukwe – demonstrates a clear strategy of investing in elite young talent to future-proof the backline as Virgil van Dijk approaches his mid-30s and Ibrahima Konaté’s contract situation remains unresolved.
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