Liverpool's boost as Chelsea quits chase for 'powerful' defender

In a bustling Liverpool training ground, the buzz centers on a 21‑year‑old Spaniard who could become Virgil van Dijk’s new partner after Chelsea abandoned their pursuit. The move would give the Reds a fresh option to shore up a defence that lost Andy Robertson and relies heavily on van Dijk.

Liverpool’s defence was identified as a key area for improvement this summer, with Virgil van Dijk and Andy Robertson the only defenders who delivered decent seasons last term. Robertson has already departed, leaving a clear gap beside van Dijk.

Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet have been mentioned as possible reinforcements, but both are still young and have never featured in Premier League matches. Their lack of top‑flight experience raises concerns about their ability to partner van Dijk effectively.

Rumours have swirled about the club’s transfer targets, and manager Richard Hughes together with sporting director Andoni Iraola appear to have identified a promising candidate. A recent update indicates that Chelsea have dropped out of the race for the player, easing Liverpool’s competition.

The candidate is Jacobo Ramon, a 21‑year‑old centre‑back whose club Como secured fourth place in Serie A last season. Alongside Nico Paz, Ramon was signed from Real Madrid and quickly became one of Italy’s top performers.

Ramon recorded 113 aerial duels in the Serie A campaign, winning 66.9 % of them, and contributed 226 defensive actions. He also won 182 ground duels at a 60.9 % success rate and achieved a passing accuracy of 91.4 %.

Carlo Ancelotti has described Ramon as a ‘powerful’ player, underscoring his quality. Arsenal are also monitoring the defender, while Chelsea’s pursuit has reportedly ended.

If Liverpool can meet Como’s asking price, the club is expected to invest heavily to secure Ramon before the summer window closes. Acquiring the Spaniard would provide a long‑term partner for van Dijk and strengthen the back line.