Liverpool are yet to officially sign a player as the club operates in the last week of the transfer window. The summer started with conversations about the Reds strengthening their squad by signing three players in each of their departments.

Liverpool chased Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi to boost the number six position but they failed to finalize the deal. As Zubimendi opted to stay, new head coach Arne Slot responded by establishing Ryan Gravenberch as the new number six.

The Reds are targeting Juventus star Federico Chiesa to bolster their attack department and compete with legendary right-winger Mohamed Salah. The potential deal will secure the attacking half with a plethora of talents who have diverse qualities and fluidity in attack.

The situation leaves the defence department that caused a lot of trouble last season despite impressive displays from some players. Captain Virgil van Dijk regained the past form that established him as one of the best defenders in the world.

Jarell Quansah established himself as a member of the senior team while Joe Gomez displayed his versatility during last season. Ibrahima Konate struggled with his fitness and form but remains a pivotal part of the team, starting this season strongly.

However, Liverpool lacks a left-footed defender and someone capable of playing naturally as a left centre-back in Van Dijk’s absence. Furthermore, Van Dijk is fulfilling the last year of his current contract with age playing a critical factor against him.

The Liverpool captain is 33 years of age despite playing a key role in the defence and needs a successor. While Van Dijk remains calm about the contract situation, Liverpool are active in the market to sign a centre-back (via DaveOCkop).

As the transfer market continues to heat up, The Kop Times assess three centre-backs capable of competing with Van Dijk:

Piero Hincapie

Bayer Leverkusen defender Pier Hincapie is a young defender that Liverpool have thoroughly scouted since the last season. The 22-year-old is a left-footed defender who has featured a lot in the back three under Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso.

The Ecuadorian is comfortable in possession, capable of making good progressive passes and carries to start buildup from the defence. However, Hincapie has enjoyed defensive protection in the three-man defence that Alonso applies while Liverpool plays with the two-man defence.

Hincapie also dictates a high valuation as he is a regular senior team player and a crucial part of the defence. Leverkusen are also playing in the Champions League with the intention of repeating their last season success, making the negotiations more tricky.

Castello Lukeba

RB Leipzig signed Castello Lukeba from Lyon in the summer of 2023, demonstrating their knack for spotting future talents. Lukeba played regularly in the latter stages of the last season for Leipzig, helping them finish fourth in the Bundesliga.

The 21-year-old is a left-footed central defender also capable of playing as a left-back with immense ball-playing ability. Despite his youth, the Frenchman has displayed maturity in and out of possession with strong decision-making and game-reading skills.

Lukeba’s ability is close to Hincapie’s despite playing his first season in the Bundesliga, enjoying immense contribution in ground duels. There is a lot of room for improvement in aerial duels but the Frenchman is young and is well-built to progress there.

Jarrad Branthwaite

The situation becomes tricky because our local rivals Everton have Jarrad Branthwaite, and we all know the mutual dislike. However, the financial situation at Everton could allow the Reds an opening to exploit their predicament and sign the 22-year-old.

Branthwaite enjoyed a fantastic breakthrough season for Everton despite their lowly finish in the Premier League. The 22-year-old has already acquired a good amount of top-level experience and has proven himself in the league.

The young Englishman’s aerial dominance and tenacity in ground duels make him a solid candidate to succeed Van Dijk. Standing at 1.95 metres, Branthwaite is a towering figure who would only develop further if he joins Liverpool.

Learning directly with Van Dijk could prove immensely beneficial to the youngster but that could only happen if Everton lets him join their biggest rivals.