Liverpool Centre-Back Search Intensifies After Leoni Injury

Liverpool centre-back options have been thrust into the spotlight following the devastating injury to Giovanni Leoni, forcing the Reds to accelerate their search for defensive reinforcements. The loss of the promising Italian defender has left Jurgen Klopp’s squad with worrying depth issues in a crucial area of the pitch as the January transfer window approaches.

Liverpool Centre-Back Options Impacted by Leoni Blow

Liverpool’s defensive roster has endured a significant setback after Giovanni Leoni, the 18-year-old signed from Parma for £30 million in August, suffered a season-ending ACL injury during his Carabao Cup debut against Southampton. The Italy Under-19 international was earmarked as a future star, with this campaign intended for adaptation and gradual integration behind stalwarts Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. However, his early injury has already forced the club to reconsider their approach to the centre-back position.

The situation is compounded by the uncertain contract status of Konate, who has yet to extend a deal expiring in 2026 amid growing speculation over a move to Real Madrid. While the recent two-year extension for captain Van Dijk provided some reassurance, it is clear that Klopp’s options in central defence are limited. The inability to secure a move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi in the previous window now looms large, as Liverpool seek to avoid being caught short in their title defence.

Liverpool Centre-Back Search: Schlotterbeck Interest Cools

In the immediate aftermath of Leoni’s injury, Liverpool were strongly linked with Borussia Dortmund’s Nico Schlotterbeck. The 25-year-old Germany international has impressed in the Bundesliga, and his performances have not gone unnoticed in England and Spain. Schlotterbeck, capped 22 times by his country, was seen as a potential successor to Konate should the Frenchman depart.

However, recent reports suggest Liverpool are not aggressively pursuing Schlotterbeck, who remains under contract at Dortmund and has yet to signal a willingness to move. In October, Schlotterbeck himself confirmed that Dortmund would be his “first point of contact” for any future talks, indicating his preference to stay put for now. With the German defender reluctant to sign a new deal but also not pushing for an exit, Liverpool may look elsewhere for defensive solutions.

Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande Emerges as Centre-Back Target

Attention has now shifted to Sporting CP’s Ousmane Diomande, who has emerged as a key target in Liverpool’s ongoing centre-back search. According to reports, the 21-year-old Ivory Coast international was also on Crystal Palace’s radar as a replacement for Marc Guehi during the summer. Palace reportedly entered advanced negotiations for a deal in the £40–50 million range, but the move stalled when Guehi remained at Selhurst Park.

Liverpool’s interest in Diomande is described as less aggressive compared to their pursuit of Schlotterbeck, yet the Sporting defender’s athleticism, composure on the ball, and potential for growth fit the profile the club desires. As January approaches, Diomande may well become a priority as the Reds weigh their options for shoring up the back line.

Current Defensive Options Under Pressure

With Leoni sidelined, Liverpool are relying heavily on Van Dijk and Konate to stay fit. Joe Gomez remains the primary backup, but injuries elsewhere—most notably to goalkeeper Alisson—have left the entire defensive unit vulnerable. The club’s summer spending spree brought in attacking talent like Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, but the decision not to prioritise defensive depth is now under scrutiny.

After just 10 games, Liverpool already find themselves trailing Arsenal by seven points in the Premier League title race. The upcoming clash at the Etihad Stadium against a resurgent Manchester City could prove pivotal; a defeat, coupled with another Arsenal win, might see the Reds’ title defence slipping away before the winter break.

What Next for Liverpool’s Centre-Back Search?

As the January transfer window looms, Liverpool centre-back recruitment will be a major talking point among fans and pundits alike. Reports suggest that while Schlotterbeck remains the ‘ideal’ option, Sporting’s Diomande is a more realistic target given the current circumstances. The club’s hierarchy must now balance immediate needs with the long-term vision, ensuring they do not repeat past mistakes in squad planning.

Liverpool’s ability to navigate this defensive crisis will ultimately shape their season. For more news on transfers, injuries, and Premier League updates, visit for more news.

Opinion: Proactive Recruitment a Must for Liverpool

In my view, Liverpool can ill-afford to hesitate in the transfer market. The Leoni injury has exposed the squad’s lack of depth at centre-back, and with the title race already heating up, swift action is essential. Failing to reinforce could see them pay a heavy price, especially if further injuries strike. The club must prioritise defensive solidity if they hope to keep pace with top rivals this season.