England centre‑back under serious Liverpool consideration

Liverpool face a defensive shortage ahead of their Premier League opener against Newcastle on 23 August, with only four centre‑backs available and three sidelined by injury, prompting the Anfield club to target England international Ezri Konsa as a potential solution.

Arne Slot's men finished fifth in England's top flight, a season after winning the title, a massive fall from grace that was blamed partly on injuries and on decisions that raised red flags.

Fenway Sports Group decided to dismiss the Dutchman and appoint Andoni Iraola, who was expected to bring in a handful of new players, yet only Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet have arrived so far.

The club’s back line is one of its main problem areas; with three of the four centre‑backs currently ruled out, Liverpool must sign a new centre‑back or two as soon as possible to avoid jeopardising their silverware ambitions.

"Liverpool are actively exploring the market for an experienced centre‑back after Andoni Iraola made it clear he wants greater defensive depth before the new season gets underway," the report said.

Sources confirmed that England internationals John Stones and Ezri Konsa are both under serious consideration, with Konsa emerging as a genuine option while Arsenal remain keen on the defender.

Konsa is admired for his versatility; Liverpool value not only his quality at centre‑back but also his ability to operate at right‑back, a trait Iraola believes would add significant flexibility to his squad.

The Aston Villa defender impressed at the 2026 World Cup, is 28 years old and offers Premier League experience, qualities that could fill the Ibrahima Konaté‑sized hole left by injuries to Joe Gomez and Jeremy Jacquet.

A move for Konsa would not come cheap, but if Iraola can convince Fenway Sports Group to invest, the Reds would improve their chances of earning silverware this term.