Liverpool Defender Hints at Future Move Amid Summer Exit Rumours
A Liverpool centre-back who has been linked with a possible departure from Anfield this summer has stated that he now feels prepared to take the “next step” in his football journey.
Over the weekend, fans were taken aback by a report from Fabrizio Romano revealing that Andy Robertson is reportedly interested in a switch to Atletico Madrid. Initial discussions are said to have taken place, with the Spanish club naming the 31-year-old their primary target for the left-back position.
Robertson may not be the only defender heading for the exit. Graeme Bailey (via TBR Football) recently suggested that Ibrahima Konaté might be sold if no progress is made in ongoing contract negotiations. Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano (via X) has reported that Bayer Leverkusen have expressed interest in Jarell Quansah.
Quansah Reflects on His Career Progress
Currently representing England at the Under-21 European Championship, Quansah opened up about his development and future before a match against Slovenia.
Speaking to The Athletic, the Liverpool defender said:
“My development is definitely heading in the right direction. I’m trying to stay level-headed, not get too high or too low.
Looking back on the last three seasons, from my time on loan at Bristol Rovers to now, I feel I’m in a strong position to take the next step. That means continuing to work hard and focusing on what I can control.
As for what lies ahead, staying grounded and committed will give me the best chance to succeed.”
Big Defensive Overhaul Looming at Liverpool?
While Quansah’s remarks don’t confirm whether he envisions taking that “next step” at Liverpool or elsewhere, they’ve stirred curiosity, especially in light of reported interest from Leverkusen.
The 22-year-old was close to securing a spot in England’s Euro 2024 squad last year but later lost his place in Liverpool’s starting XI to Konaté, whose future remains uncertain with just over a year left on his deal and no resolution in sight.
A defensive shake-up at Anfield this summer appears increasingly possible. With Trent Alexander-Arnold already off to Real Madrid and Robertson potentially heading to Atletico, Liverpool could see significant changes in their back line. If Konaté also departs, manager Arne Slot might be left with only Virgil van Dijk from his expected starting defence come the end of August.
Thankfully, van Dijk looks set to stay, and new signing Jeremie Frimpong has arrived at Anfield—possibly soon to be joined by Milos Kerkez. Just two years after Liverpool’s midfield was overhauled, a similar rebuild might now be on the horizon for their defence.