Journalist ‘Expects’ Liverpool to Sign Defender This Summer | OneFootball

Can Liverpool Convince Dean Huijsen This Summer?

In the ever-evolving game of transfer chess, it’s rare to find a piece that perfectly fits the board. Yet, that’s precisely what Liverpool may need to do this summer as they consider their options at centre-back — and the name Dean Huijsen has entered the discussion once more.

In a recent discussion on Anfield Index, football journalist David Lynch joined Dave Davis to share insight on Liverpool’s potential summer moves. Speaking on the Reds’ reported interest in the young AFC Bournemouth defender, Lynch said plainly: “I’ve been sceptical about this link because other clubs can definitely offer him the minutes that Liverpool can’t really guarantee.”

It’s a fair point — and one that gets to the heart of the issue. Huijsen, at just 19, is not lacking suitors. With Serie A and La Liga clubs circling, the Dutch-eligible centre-half can likely secure regular starts elsewhere. Can Liverpool, with Virgil van Dijk still commanding a starting role and Ibrahima Konaté (for now) the assumed long-term partner, really make a compelling case?

Squad Spots and Selection Dilemmas

If there’s any opening in this squad, it will have to be prised open by departures — something Lynch didn’t shy away from suggesting: “I do expect Liverpool to sign a centre-back this summer because I expect Joe Gomez to leave, which would mean the player coming in would be third or fourth choice.”

There’s both intrigue and uncertainty here. On one hand, Gomez has offered versatility and valuable squad depth. On the other, his role has been gradually diminished. If he does leave, it paves the way for a new face, albeit still one in a rotational role.

But Huijsen isn’t just any prospect. He’s tactically sharp, composed under pressure, and technically excellent in build-up play — a modern defender made for Slot’s potential system. Still, it’s that nagging issue of minutes. As Lynch rightly noted, “At the moment, I’m not sure that there’s a place in the squad that he would be keen to take up.”

Konaté Contract Clouds the Picture

One twist in the narrative lies with Konaté. While fans consider him a nailed-on starter when fit, there’s now a degree of uncertainty. Lynch revealed: “There is doubts at the moment though over Ibou Konate’s future as he hasn’t agreed a new contract yet.”

It’s a line that may have slipped under the radar — but it shouldn’t. If Liverpool decide to act pre-emptively, as they have in the past with contract standoffs, Huijsen becomes a much more realistic target. It’s not inconceivable to see a scenario where Liverpool make a sale and turn that into a proactive reinforcement plan.

Photo: IMAGO

“And if Liverpool chose to act decisively over that, then perhaps a move for Huijsen is more likely,” Lynch added — a subtle, yet telling line that speaks volumes. This summer, it won’t be just about adding bodies; it’ll be about reading the market, getting ahead of problems, and adapting to the decisions of others.

Sales Pitch Must Match Ambition

It’s clear that Huijsen will have options. Top-flight football. European campaigns. Defined starting roles. What Liverpool have to offer is something less tangible — a project, a learning curve, and a place in one of the most tactically ambitious teams in Europe under Arne Slot.

“We will see. It’s another one where it’s an interesting storyline going into the summer but can they create the package and the sales pitch to get him on board,” Lynch concluded.

That’s the real question — not just whether Liverpool can afford Huijsen, but whether they can convince him. There’s a fine line between ambition and opportunity. Liverpool will have to thread that needle carefully if they want to lure one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders.

Credit to David Lynch, who spoke to Dave Davis on Anfield Index, for sharing the kind of clear-headed insight that helps us see the moving parts of Liverpool’s transfer machinery a little more clearly.