Liverpool have been linked with a move for RB Leipzig right-back Lutsharel Geertruida in recent days, and a now a new claim has emerged regarding the situation.
A right-back feels like a must for the Reds this summer, with their options there feeling horribly lacking due to Conor Bradley’s long-term injury absence.
Geertruida has been talked up as an option this week, with a respected source providing the latest, claiming that there have been talks regarding a switch to Anfield:
“Lutsharel Geertruida’s reps have held talks with Liverpool officials. Liverpool are very keen on the right back. Lutsharel Geertruida has received a dramatic late call-up to the Netherlands’ World Cup squad to replace Jurrien Timber.”
Now, Voetbal International journalist Joost Blaauwhof has given an update on X, suggesting that a move to Liverpool now looks highly unlikely for Geertruida:
“Lutsharel Geertruida currently has no contact whatsoever with Liverpool. Arne Slot wanted to bring in the defender in the winter due to his versatility. The club didn’t follow through at the last moment, despite a personal agreement. The ex-Feyenoorder is focusing on the World Cup, transfer comes later.”
Liverpool must find Lutsharel Geertruida alternative
Missing out on Geertruida is a shame for Liverpool, considering he is a solid right-back with Premier League experience, being hailed by Sunderland’s Luke O’Nien during his loan spell at the Stadium of Light last season:
“He’s been top, he’s been top level. As a human, as a player, he’s incredible. I’d love to see him stay. I’ve asked him every day for God knows how long, so at least when that’s out of my hands, I’ll try and get him here tonight. I’ll give him a napkin, have the contract underneath. But he’s a phenomenal human, and at the level he’s shown in all positions, he’s been so important to this team this season, and hopefully many more years.”
It is imperative that Liverpool now look at alternatives to the £25.8m-rated Geertruida, however, with a new right-back essential, due to Bradley’s injury and Jeremie Frimpong not feeling like the answer there.
There is no need for the Reds to spend big in that position, but an experienced figure makes sense, giving Andoni Iraola solidity in a position that was problematic in Arne Slot’s final year in charge.
Ideally, signing a versatile figure who can also job at centre-back would make perfect sense, giving Liverpool added squad depth after the departure of Ibrahima Konate to Real Madrid.