Liverpool did not spend a lot of money last summer, but the Reds – who were in incredible form before the season was suspended – could have a big budget to make a few changes to their squad.
One area of the pitch that they could improve on is the centre-back position, as experienced centre-back Dejan Lovren, is reportedly set to leave the club.
La Lazio Siamo Noi (via Transfer Market Web) have reported that Italian club Lazio are keen on signing the 30-year-old centre-back, while the likes of Tottenham, Lyon, and Arsenal have enquired about his availability.
If Lovren does leave the club in the summer, who could Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp sign to replace him? Let’s take a look at 3 replacements Liverpool should target:
3 players Liverpool should target if Dejan Lovren leaves
#1 Dayot Upamecano
RB Leipzig centre- back Dayot Upamecano has caught the eye over the last season or two while playing for the German club. The 21-year-old centre-back joined Leipzig in 2017 after impressing for Red Bull Salzburg, and he has gone on to become a key player for the German side.
The Frenchman is confident in bringing the ball out from the back and likes to dribble with the ball. Upamecano is also strong with his passing, averaging 72.7 passes per game in the Bundesliga, and 6.2 aerial passes per game.
He also uses his physique and muscle to brush attackers off the ball, while also being quick to make key interceptions. Upamecano is one of the brightest young defenders in Europe and would thrive beside Virgil van Dijk at Liverpool.
#2 Diego Carlos
Sevilla’s Diego Carlos is a much more experienced option for Liverpool than Upamecano, having played in Brazil, Portugal, France and Spain.
The 26-year-old Brazilian is a strong tackler, who is good in the air, while also being a confident passer. Carlos is quick to get to the ball and makes key interceptions and tackles, and clears the ball in dangerous situations.
While he may not have the dribbling ability of Upamecano, his defence first approach will hold him in a good stead when the Reds face a back-to-the-wall situation.
#3 Ben White
Closer to home, Ben White is a defender who may be on the shortlist of several Premier League clubs. White, who has been on loan at Championship side Leeds United this season, has impressed in Marcelo Bielsa’s team. The Brighton defender could be on the move in the summer, after putting in phenomenal performances in the Leeds defence.
White is a player who has excellent passing ability, while he is also quick to make interceptions, thanks to his good positioning ability and game-reading traits.
White would be a cheaper and safer option for Klopp as he already knows the ins-and-outs of English football.
