Image Credits: Getty Images
It’s fair to say Liverpool’s need for a centre-back is slightly overdue.
Van Dijk, while still world-class, turns 34 in July, and will need a younger understudy if the Reds want to challenge on four fronts next season.
Jarell Quansah faces an uncertain future amid widespread interest across Europe with David Ornstein recently revealing that he expects the 22-year-old to leave Anfield this summer.
Ibrahima Konate’s situation compounds the issue: his contract expires in 2026, and negotiations have stalled despite his importance to Arne Slot’s side.
While Dean Huijsen has been touted as a feasible target there is a growing feeling the Bournemouth defender is Real Madrid bound.
With the need for reinforcement apparent, AS Colombia has now come out with a report claiming that Liverpool is interested in 26-year-old Jhon Lucumi from Bologna.
It is reported that the Colombian international has told the Seria A side he wants to leave in the summer, with the Reds keeping an eye on the player.
AS suggests a big attractor for Liverpool is the fact that Lucumi is left-footed, with all of Liverpool’s four senior defenders right-footed.
He is valued at €18 million and with his contract expiring in 2026, it’s the kind of deal Liverpool likes to make.
His underlying statistics showcase why Liverpool would want him, as his creative output from defensive is remarkable:
Jhon Lucumi Per 90 Percentile
Tackles 1.83 74
Blocks 1.29 57
Shot-Creating Actions 1.17 81
Progressive Passes 3.64 59
Progressive Carries 1.17 87
Successful Take-Ons 0.37 82
Passes Attempted 71.14 86
Player compared to positional peers in Men’s Big 5 Leagues, UCL, UEL over the last 365 days. Based on 3144 minutes played [FBref].
Combined with his left foot, the Colombian would add balance and new passing lanes for build-up play from the back.
Described as a “colossus in defence” by Breaking The Lines, the defender seems to be one to watch this summer.
Bologna’s willingness to negotiate – coupled with their need to comply with Financial Fair Play – has created a buyer’s market.
Liverpool’s existing relationship with Lucumi’s agency, which also represents Luis Díaz, could prove decisive in negotiation.
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.