Liverpool's defensive options have undergone a significant shift with the departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee of £35 million. The 22-year-old centre-back, who progressed through the club's academy and made 53 appearances for the Reds, scoring three goals, has finalized his move to the Bundesliga. The deal includes an initial guaranteed fee of £30 million with £5 million in achievable add-ons. Liverpool has also ensured a buy-back clause in the deal for a pre-agreed fee, which can be activated from 2027.

This transfer prompts questions about Liverpool's strategy regarding their central defense. Virgil van Dijk's contract renewal until 2027 provided some stability, but the potential departures of Quansah and Joe Gomez raised concerns about squad depth. The club is seemingly looking to the future, targeting young, up-and-coming centre-backs to eventually take the reins from Van Dijk.

Several names have been linked with a move to Anfield. Sporting Lisbon's Goncalo Inacio and Ousmane Diomande have been mentioned as potential targets. Liverpool are reportedly stepping up their pursuit of Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi. There were reports that Liverpool even considered offering young winger Ben Doak to Crystal Palace to facilitate a deal for Guehi.

The Reds have been scouting for centre-backs with interest in Leny Yoro and Dean Huijsen. Liverpool were also in the hunt for Huijsen at Bournemouth before Real Madrid triggered the £50m release clause to take him to the Spanish capital. Levi Colwill was also under consideration.

With Quansah's departure confirmed, Liverpool's need for defensive reinforcements becomes clearer. The club will need to carefully assess their options and make strategic signings to ensure they have sufficient quality and depth in their backline for the upcoming season.