Liverpool’s Next Centre-Back Search Has Two Clear Names On It

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · Anfield Agenda ↗

Liverpool's long-term defensive planning is reportedly focusing on Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck and Nottingham Forest's Murillo as potential centre-back signings, according to Caught Offside as cited by Anfield Agenda. The club is looking for defenders who can play in a possession-based system and start attacks from deep. Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez are entering a phase where succession planning becomes necessary. Liverpool's current defensive lineup has not looked fully settled for weeks.

Schlotterbeck is described as left-footed, progressive with the ball, and physically imposing, making him a potential natural successor to Van Dijk. He has taken on the Dortmund captaincy at 26, indicating his standing within the team. However, his contract has a release clause worth €50-60m from 2027 for a limited number of clubs, and Dortmund values him above €70m otherwise. This represents a significant financial outlay for Liverpool.

Murillo is attractive due to his recovery pace and aggression, which could fit into Liverpool's defence that has occasionally looked exposed in transition. He is younger than Schlotterbeck, which is beneficial for long-term planning. However, Nottingham Forest is unwilling to sell in January, and his contract runs until 2030, giving them leverage. Liverpool would need to pay a premium to initiate discussions, according to the report.