Topics: Everton, Liverpool, Liverpool Transfer News & Rumours, Premier League
Liverpool could be about to send shockwaves through the Premier League with a late transfer, according to a new report, with Arne Slot believed to be a 'huge' admirer.
The Reds are currently light on the ground when it comes to centre-back options, especially after Sepp van den Berg, 22, joined Brentford this week in deal worth up to £25 million.
In total, there are four players – Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, Jarell Quansah and Joe Gomez – in competition for two positions at centre-back, according to Slot.
Gomez, however, could be on his way out of Anfield this summer, with Newcastle United and Aston Villa reportedly interested in signing the England international for a hefty fee.
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He was also left out of the club's squad for their Premier League opener against Ipswich Town last week amid interest from multiple clubs.
Amid talk around their defensive options, a report from The Sun has emerged that suggests Liverpool are ready to 'snatch' Jarrad Branthwaite from Merseyside rivals Everton.
Branthwaite, who has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United this summer, is said to be 'open to the move' as he wants to play for a higher-profile club.
So how much are we talking? Liverpool are prepared to offer £63 million plus £7 million in add-ons to sign the highly-rated defender, according to the report, who claim Arne Slot is a big fan of the player.
In fact, Liverpool are 'growing in confidence' that a deal can be done before the window slams shut next week.
Everton have already turned down two offers from Manchester United worth £43 million and £50 million for Branthwaite, who is reportedly "keen" to join the ranks at Old Trafford this summer.
He has previously been valued at between £70 million and £80 million.
The Cumbrian, 22, recently enjoyed a breakout campaign for Sean Dyche's side and was included in the provision England side for Euro 2024 before being cut from Gareth Southgate's final 26-man squad.
"I think it is a bit early for Jarrad. He has had a fabulous season and it was good to get him on the other night," Southgate said back in June.
"Of course, in an ideal world, you would like lots of left-footers. But, to put him ahead of the others, I don't think that would have been the right call at this stage."
