Bayer Leverkusen is reportedly set to make a significant move for Liverpool centre-back Jarell Quansah as they aim to strengthen their defence in the lead-up to the new season. According to The Athletic, the Bundesliga club has listed Quansah among several centre-back targets, following the departure of key defensive players such as Jonathan Tah to Bayern Munich and Mario Hermoso back to Roma after his loan. Leverkusen’s need for reinforcements is critical, and the 22-year-old Quansah, valued at over £40 million, represents a potential solution.
The discussions between Liverpool and Leverkusen over Quansah are separate from ongoing negotiations concerning attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz. This clarity means that any potential deal for Quansah is independent, indicating that Liverpool has no intention of including him as part of the Wirtz transaction.
Quansah’s rise within Liverpool during the last season marked him as a player to watch. Under Jürgen Klopp, he became a fixture in the starting line-up, notably forming a promising partnership with Virgil van Dijk in the latter part of the 2023–24 campaign. His performance was enough to earn him a call-up to Thomas Tuchel’s England squad, underlining his potential on an international level. However, despite this promising trajectory, Quansah has faced challenges in securing consistent minutes under new manager Arne Slot. Although he started the season opener against Ipswich Town, he was quickly replaced by Ibrahima Konaté and spent much of the season on the bench.
Quansah’s contributions during the past season saw him make 25 appearances in total, but only five were as a starter in the Premier League. Liverpool ultimately clinched the league title during Slot’s inaugural season, yet Quansah’s limited playing time has raised questions about his future at Anfield.
Given Liverpool’s current centre-back depth and Quansah’s development potential, the club appears to be in no rush to sell. However, the increasing interest from Leverkusen may compel Liverpool to reassess their options. Previously, Newcastle United had approached Liverpool regarding Quansah’s availability, but their inquiries were met with resistance.
As a local talent hailing from Warrington, Quansah carries the aspirations of a homegrown player eager to establish himself as a key figure at Liverpool. His future may ultimately hinge on his contract status and the club’s strategy regarding their defensive lineup.
On the other side, Bayer Leverkusen is undergoing substantial changes under new management. With Erik ten Hag taking the helm, following Xabi Alonso’s move to Real Madrid, the club is looking to redefine its identity. They have already made strides by signing Mark Flekken from Brentford. A £40 million move for Quansah would not only be a significant financial commitment but also a statement of intent as they aim to rebuild with a focus on young, promising talent.
For Liverpool supporters, the potential sale of Quansah brings mixed feelings. The financial implications of selling a homegrown defender for over £40 million are certainly attractive, especially considering the financial landscape and the need for upgrades across the squad. Nonetheless, his emergence as a potential long-term central defensive leader has fans hesitant. With his impressive ball control, aerial strength, and positional awareness, many see him as a natural successor to Joel Matip, especially after the latter’s departure last summer.
Even with Virgil van Dijk remaining a top contender and Konaté showcasing his moments of brilliance, injuries have highlighted the need for a deep and talented defensive lineup to compete for titles. While Leverkusen’s interest is indeed flattering, Liverpool’s decision to part with Quansah would require assurance that his replacement possesses similar qualities or that the club has credible youth options ready to step up.
As Quansah’s situation develops, supporters will likely hold their breath, hoping it remains mere speculation. With Champions League football returning to Anfield next season, selling a promising player before he has had a chance to reclaim his spot in the lineup could echo past mistakes, like the sale of Conor Coady, who has gone on to have a successful career.
Ultimately, the upcoming weeks will be crucial for both Jarell Quansah and Liverpool Football Club. The decisions made in this transfer window could set the tone for the club’s ambitions in both domestic and European competitions, making it an exciting yet nerve-wracking time for fans.
