BBC Sport has provided an update on Liverpool’s reported interest in buying back Jarell Quansah from Bayer Leverkusen this summer
Liverpool’s defensive plans have been dealt a fresh setback after Joe Gomez suffered an injury during the club’s pre-season friendly against Sunderland, leaving head coach Andoni Iraola with limited options at the heart of his defence ahead of the new campaign.
Gomez was forced off just eight minutes into the match, adding to Liverpool’s growing concerns in central defence. The experienced defender was also absent from the club’s training session in Chicago on Sunday, with an update on the extent of his injury yet to arrive.
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His absence leaves Virgil van Dijk as Liverpool’s only fit senior centre-back.
The club captain remains a key figure, but the lack of experienced cover has increased scrutiny over Liverpool’s defensive depth.
Summer signings Jeremy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni are both still unavailable through injury, Jacquet’s absence against Sunderland was down to a minor issue.
Despite the current shortage, Liverpool have no plans to bring Jarell Quansah back to Anfield this summer, according to BBC Sport.
The Reds inserted a buyback clause when the England international completed a £30 million plus £5 million in add-ons move to Bayer Leverkusen in July 2025, giving them the option to re-sign the academy graduate in the future.
However, the report states the club has no intention of activating that clause during the current transfer window.
Strangely enough, it was previously reported that Quansah has already agreed personal terms with Liverpool in the event of a return.
Speculation over Quansah’s future has resurfaced after an impressive first season in Germany. The 23-year-old established himself as a regular at Bayer Leverkusen following his departure from Liverpool, where he left in search of consistent first-team football after making 58 senior appearances.
His performances in the Bundesliga also earned him a place in England’s FIFA World Cup squad.
Speaking on BBC Football Daily during the World Cup, Jarell Quansah made it clear that his attention remains on his current club. The defender said his focus is on “the now,” rather than any discussion about a possible return to the Premier League.
Liverpool continue to keep track of Quansah’s development, and the buyback clause ensures the club retains a degree of influence over his long-term future.
Should the defender continue his upward trajectory, Liverpool would have the opportunity to revisit a move without competing in an open market.
Jarell Quansah