Liverpool target Sporting Lisbon star as Van Dijk’s new defensive partner | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Centre-Back Duo as Defensive Rebuild Looms

As Liverpool transition into the Arne Slot era, the search for stability at the heart of the defence continues. According to a detailed report by Liverpool.com, the Reds have now identified two youthful central defenders — Ousmane Diomande and Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal — as potential solutions to a position that has recently been more fragile than firm.

Diomande’s Rise and Slot’s Next Statement Move

Sporting Lisbon’s Ousmane Diomande is more than just a promising talent. At 21, he boasts a league and cup double, along with 46 appearances across all competitions last season. That level of exposure at a young age speaks volumes, particularly in a system as tactically demanding as Sporting’s.

Picture:IMAGO

The report notes that “Liverpool is considering its defensive options ahead of next season, as uncertainty lingers over a number of the club’s current centre-backs.” It’s not difficult to see why. While “Van Dijk is staying put for another two years”, the outlook around Ibrahima Konaté is less certain, “ahead of the expiration of his contract next year”. Joe Gomez is working his way back from injury, and Jarell Quansah, despite early promise, “has just experienced a regressive campaign.”

In short, reinforcements are not only desired but arguably essential.

Missed Targets and New Alternatives

Dean Huijsen, once thought to be on Liverpool’s radar, chose Real Madrid. That has seemingly forced the club to pivot. “A report by Portuguese outlet A Bola said that Liverpool has taken the ‘first step’ towards signing Diomande,” with Crystal Palace also circling as they prepare for life without Marc Guehi.

That first step could be decisive. Diomande is a physical, composed defender with Champions League-level experience. If Liverpool can move quickly, they may land a player who could realistically partner Van Dijk from the opening day.

Spotlight on Ait Boudlal

The Reds are not stopping at Diomande. Rennes’ Abdelhamid Ait Boudlal, just 19, is also reportedly a serious target. “Liverpool and Newcastle are both said to be interested,” yet it is claimed by Le360 Sport that the Reds have already tabled a concrete offer.

He is an unknown to most fans. “Given his young age and lack of top-level game time, most soccer fans are unlikely to have heard of him, but he is highly rated.” Last October, The Guardian named him as one of the best players born in 2006.

Ait Boudlal’s nine appearances for Amiens, on loan from Rennes, show he’s starting to test himself in senior football. At 6-foot-3 and described as having “defensive intelligence, and a maturity rare for his age,” the Moroccan could be a smart, long-term addition.

Slot’s Defensive Plan Taking Shape

Slot’s approach so far has been pragmatic. There’s a clear desire to reduce the physical burden on Van Dijk while improving transition resilience. These two centre-backs reflect that profile — young, athletic, and positionally sharp.

With Liverpool known for moving decisively when they identify a fit, both Diomande and Ait Boudlal could be part of a defensive refresh designed to support a tactical overhaul under their new Dutch boss.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This feels like a proper Liverpool move — smart scouting, young potential, and real upside. Diomande has the pedigree. Winning a double in Portugal and starting 46 games at 21? That’s serious experience. If Konaté is on the way out, then this would be a brilliant replacement. He’s got the build, the ball-playing ability, and most importantly, he’s available.

And let’s talk about Ait Boudlal — the guy is only 19 but already making waves in France. If the club has made a formal offer, it shows they’re not messing around. It’s also great to see us competing with clubs like Newcastle and winning. That hasn’t always been the case in the last few years when it comes to young talent.

But the best part? These aren’t just squad fillers. Diomande could start next to Van Dijk now, while Ait Boudlal could be groomed like Quansah was. This sort of long-term planning excites me. With Arne Slot building from the back, it looks like the club is finally learning from recent injuries and defensive collapses. Let’s get it done.