Liverpool may have found a new target on the market to bolster its back line. After seeing a move for Marc Guehi collapse on deadline day, the Reds are now weighing a move for Newcastle’s Sven Botman as an alternative. The 24-year-old Dutch defender has returned to action this season after a long injury layoff and is regaining his place under Eddie Howe, but interest from Anfield comes at a time of internal uncertainty.
Injuries and contracts expose defensive frailty
Arne Slot’s side already knew more depth was needed, but recent events have made the need more urgent. Young center-back Geovanni Leoni suffered a torn ACL and is unlikely to return this season. To make matters worse, Frenchman Ibrahima Konaté could be on his way out, with his contract expiring at the end of the current campaign and no renewal confirmed. That leaves Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez as the only reliable veterans, with Jarell Quansah still in the process of establishing himself.
Botman back on the radar after a tough season
Botman’s name is no surprise. The former Lille defender had already been linked to Liverpool before joining Newcastle in 2022. His time at St. James’ Park started well, but last season was derailed by injuries that kept him out for long stretches. In 2025, however, he’s back in the lineup, starting five of Newcastle’s seven competitive matches so far.
Even so, it’s not easy to imagine Newcastle parting with a player who’s once again become important. Any decision may hinge on the Magpies’ position in the Premier League and the business they plan to conduct in January.
Liverpool weighing January move
According to talkSPORT, internal discussions are ongoing about whether to bring in a center-back right away. Guehi remains a long-term target, but Botman has re-emerged on the shortlist, along with other unnamed options. The dilemma is whether to spend big this winter or wait until the summer.
With the defense stretched by injuries and expiring contracts, the trend points to Liverpool making a move in January to avoid bigger risks. Botman, with his age, physical profile, and Premier League experience, fits the mold. The challenge will be convincing Newcastle to sell in the middle of the season.