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Liverpool continue to monitor 22-year-old defender amid Virgil van Dijk uncertainty

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By Shrishh Attavar

Liverpool monitoring Willian Pacho of PSG amid Virgil van Dijk uncertainty

Liverpool closely monitor Willian Pacho of PSG amid growing uncertainty over Virgil van Dijk’s long-term future, whose current club deal expires at the end of the season. The Merseysiders have been targeting a left-footed centre-back for quite some time and that seems to continue, in the next two transfer windows as well, reflecting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Van Dijk’s future.

According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool considered signing a new centre-back but could not attract their top targets. Since then though, the club’s recruitment team has since pinpointed a left-footed centre half as a crucial area for strengthening. One name that has emerged on their radar is that of Pacho, who joined PSG from Eintracht Frankfurt during the summer.

Pacho, a promising talent, has quickly made a name for himself at PSG. His defensive prowess, combined with his ability to play out from the back, makes him an ideal candidate for Liverpool. The 22-year-old’s composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and strong aerial presence are qualities that would enhance Liverpool’s defence. Additionally, Pacho’s pace and agility enable him to effectively cover wide areas, making him a versatile option for the backline. As evident from his FBRef stats, he is a top-class interceptor of the ball, knows when to commit, and does that without giving away a lot of fouls, very similar to VVD.

Liverpool monitoring Willian Pacho of PSG amid Virgil van Dijk uncertainty,
Liverpool monitoring Willian Pacho of PSG amid Virgil van Dijk uncertainty.

Should the Reds sign Pacho?

Signing Pacho would not only add depth to Liverpool’s defensive options but also provide a long-term solution should Van Dijk decide to move on. Pacho’s ability to read the game and his strong tackling skills would complement Liverpool’s high-pressing style under Arne Slot. Moreover, his left-footedness would bring balance to a defence that has primarily relied on right-footed centre-backs.

While the potential acquisition of Pacho is exciting, there is still a sense of confidence within the club regarding Van Dijk’s future. The Dutchman remains a pivotal figure at Anfield, and securing his signature on a new deal is a priority. His leadership, experience, and unmatched defensive capabilities make him an indispensable part of Liverpool’s squad, especially as the club embarks on a new era under Slot.

Being proactive is good and all that, but Virgil is, undoubtedly the best back in the world, and arguably, top five of all time. The combination of securing Van Dijk’s future and adding a promising talent like Pacho would position Liverpool well for sustained success.

Liverpool should ideally get Virgil van Dijk to sign a new deal and figure a way out to get Pacho on board as well.
Liverpool should ideally get Virgil van Dijk to sign a new deal and figure a way out to get Pacho on board as well.

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If there is a universe where we can secure Pacho’s services and also get Big Virg to sign a new deal, the club must strive to make sure that this is that universe. Let’s see where things go. Contract negotiations are not an easy task by any means but Virgil has hinted that he intends to extend his stay at the club. Hopefully, the number of centre-backs at the club only increases when the transfer window comes around.

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