Liverpool are reportedly unlikely to activate their £69m buy-back clause for former defender Jarell Quansah following the club’s latest internal transfer decision.
According to reports originating from Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Reds are not currently planning to trigger the €80m (£69.7m) clause that would allow them to re-sign the centre-back this summer.
The clause remains valid until May 2026, meaning Liverpool still retain the option to act, but as things stand, the club appear set to prioritise other defensive targets.
?? Liverpool still have the option to activate a buy-back clause for Jarell #Quansah until the end of May, set at €80 million.
So far, however, Leverkusen have received no indication – neither from the player nor from Liverpool. #LFC‘s current focus is on extending Ibrahima… pic.twitter.com/nCYRJ8nsAB
— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) April 7, 2026
Liverpool shifting focus to alternative defensive plans
Quansah, who departed Anfield in a previous deal that included the buy-back option, has continued to develop abroad, keeping him firmly on Liverpool’s radar.
However, the latest indications suggest the club’s recruitment team have chosen to move in a different direction for now, potentially focusing on external defensive additions rather than reclaiming a former player.
The Reds will welcome Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes in the summer in a deal worth £60m.
?? Jérémy Jacquet —> Sold by €60M
?? Doku —> Sold by €60M
?? Doué —> Sold by €50M
?? Dembélé —> Sold by €35M
?? Kader Meïté —> Sold by €30M
?? Camavinga —> Sold by €31M
?? Ugochukwu —> Sold by €27M
?? Mathys Tel —> Sold by €20M
?? Raphinha —> €18.60M
?? Sacha Boey —>… pic.twitter.com/Q7luPf5Fn1
— Rising Stars XI (@RisingStarXI) March 22, 2026
Liverpool’s current stance does not completely close the door on a return, but it suggests that activating the clause is not viewed as a priority at this stage.
With the summer window approaching, decisions around defensive reinforcements are expected to play a central role in shaping the squad for next season.
Ibrahima Konate reportedly closing in on a new contract will have a positive impact on recruitment plans for the summer.
Clause deadline leaves room for late change
Despite the current reluctance to trigger the buy-back, Liverpool still have time to reassess the situation before the clause expires.
The May deadline provides a limited window for the club to review performances, injuries and transfer market developments before making a final call.
For now, though, reports indicate Liverpool are leaning away from bringing Quansah back, suggesting confidence in alternative transfer plans for the summer window.
It’s vital that Liverpool get their defensive balance spot on this summer after a season of embarassing results, with the most recent 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup just one of many confusing results.
FSG will be keen to get recruitment correct after investing £460m on new signings before the start of this season.