Report: Liverpool considering January move to sign £53m defender | OneFootball

Liverpool Tracking Galatasaray’s Wilfried Singo as January Defensive Target

Liverpool are preparing to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the January transfer window, with Galatasaray’s Wilfried Singo emerging as a key name under consideration. The 24-year-old has impressed Arne Slot’s staff after a series of strong displays in the Champions League, particularly during Galatasaray’s clean sheet against Liverpool earlier this season, according to a report from Sabah.

Injury Blow Forces Liverpool to Reconsider Options

Giovanni Leoni’s serious knee injury has disrupted Liverpool’s defensive stability. The young Italian, who picked up the problem during his debut in September, is set for a lengthy spell on the sidelines. That setback leaves Slot with just three senior centre-backs, prompting a reassessment of the club’s transfer priorities.

Sources suggest that Liverpool’s recruitment team are analysing multiple defensive options ahead of the window, with Marc Guehi long admired at Anfield. However, Crystal Palace are reluctant to part with their captain mid-season, meaning alternative solutions are being explored. Galatasaray’s Wilfried Singo is now firmly on Liverpool’s radar.

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Wilfried Singo Impressing Against Top Opposition

Singo caught Liverpool’s attention during their Champions League group stage meeting at RAMS Park, where he played a pivotal role in Galatasaray’s 1-0 win. The Ivorian defender demonstrated his physicality, pace and composure, helping to repel Liverpool’s attack and earning widespread praise for his all-round performance.

Since that match, Galatasaray have maintained their strong European form, following up their win over Liverpool with back-to-back victories, including a convincing 3-0 result away at Ajax. According to Turkish outlet Sabah, Singo’s commanding display in Amsterdam has intensified interest from several European clubs, with Liverpool among those monitoring him closely.

Profile of Galatasaray’s Versatile Defender

Liverpool’s scouts have continued to watch Galatasaray’s Champions League fixtures and are expected to maintain their focus on Singo through the winter months. Reports claim the defender has a release clause of around £53 million, and “it is said to be ‘expected’ that offers will arrive for his services once the January window opens.”

Singo’s career path reflects his steady rise across Europe. After making over 100 appearances for Torino between 2019 and 2023, he moved to Monaco, where his reputation continued to grow. His transfer to Galatasaray this past summer added another dimension to his development, as he quickly adapted to life in Turkey’s top flight.

Why Liverpool’s Interest Makes Sense

Standing at 6ft 3in and capable of operating both as a centre-back and right-back, Singo’s versatility makes him an appealing fit for Slot’s system. Liverpool have experienced issues at right-back this term, and Singo’s athleticism could provide cover across multiple defensive roles.

The Ivory Coast international, who lifted the Africa Cup of Nations in 2023, is likely to feature in the upcoming tournament starting in December. While his participation could limit availability in January, his combination of strength, recovery speed and top-level experience offers a solution that aligns with Liverpool’s long-term vision.