Report: Arsenal eyeing move for Bundesliga defender who almost joined Liverpool | OneFootball

Arsenal Transfer News: Lutsharel Geertruida Battle Emerges with Liverpool

Arsenal and Liverpool appear to be tracking the same defensive solution this summer, with Caught Offside reporting that Lutsharel Geertruida is firmly on the radar of both clubs. The RB Leipzig defender is valued at around €25m, a figure that immediately stands out in a market where adaptable, top-level defenders often command far higher fees.

From Arsenal’s perspective, the logic is easy to follow. The report states that the Gunners have “placed Lutsharel Geertruida on their shortlist for the right-back position”, with decision-makers impressed by his “versatility and experience”. Those are two qualities Mikel Arteta and the recruitment team consistently prioritise, especially for a squad expected to compete deep into domestic and European competitions once again.

Liverpool’s interest also feels credible. They are “monitoring the Dutch international” as Andoni Iraola shapes his squad, searching for “a modern full-back who can contribute in possession and provide defensive flexibility”. That profile aligns closely with Geertruida’s reputation, and it is noted elsewhere that the Reds were “very keen” after talks involving his representatives.

Photo: IMAGO

Geertruida Versatility Appeals to Arsenal

What makes this one particularly interesting is the player’s range. Geertruida can operate at right-back, centre-back and in defensive midfield, which gives Arsenal multiple layers of cover from one signing. He also gained Premier League exposure during the 2025/26 season on loan at Sunderland, adding context to why English clubs may now feel more confident about his adaptation.

There is still no confirmed bid, and Liverpool may yet offer “a clearer route to regular football”. Even so, Arsenal’s need for dependable depth is obvious, and a fee of €25m could look like smart business if the competition intensifies.

Our View

From an Arsenal fan’s point of view, this feels like the sort of move that makes plenty of sense, even if it may not generate the same noise as a marquee attacking signing. Geertruida looks like the kind of player supporters often appreciate more as the season goes on, because availability, flexibility and reliability matter enormously when injuries, suspensions and fixture congestion start to bite.

The biggest attraction here is clearly his adaptability. A player who can cover right-back, centre-back and midfield gives Arteta more room to manage difficult periods without the drop-off that can derail a title challenge. Arsenal have learned the hard way that squad depth has to be genuine, not just numerical.

At €25m, this also sounds like a very fair price in the current market. If that valuation is accurate, Arsenal should be pushing hard. There is always a risk when Liverpool are involved, especially if they can promise a more immediate pathway, but Arsenal can offer elite-level competition, Champions League football and a system that values intelligent defenders.

Supporters would probably still want a bigger signing or two elsewhere, but this type of deal can be just as important. If Arsenal are serious about winning the Premier League, adding a dependable, multi-functional defender like Geertruida would feel like a sharp and sensible step.