Anyone expecting a significant decline for Liverpool next season will likely be disappointed: Arne Slot has taken over one of the Premier League’s most talented and dynamic squads.
It’s true that Jurgen Klopp’s departure has left a gap that can’t truly be filled, but Liverpool were resurgent last year, winning the Carabao Cup and spending most of the season battling Arsenal and Manchester City for the title.
However, it’s undeniable that the Reds fell just short in the end, also losing to Manchester United and Atalanta in the FA Cup and Europa League respectively, both of whom went on to become champions.
There is certainly work to be done for FSG and Michael Edwards, but if Liverpool can overcome the challenges, an exciting campaign could be on the horizon. Addressing the center-back situation will be crucial, though.
Liverpool Want New Centre-back
When Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein’s reports align, you can be sure there’s substance to the story. According to these renowned transfer experts, Liverpool are actively seeking a deal for Lille’s Leny Yoro, an 18-year-old center-back with immense potential.
Real Madrid are also in contention, and there’s a bitter acceptance that Los Blancos might prevail. In recent years, Anfield has been bested on the pitch and in the transfer market by Florentino Perez’s team on numerous occasions.
With Joel Matip now departed at the end of his contract, Liverpool desperately need to strengthen their backline. A fantastic alternative could be Levi Colwill, a long-time Liverpool target.
According to football.london, the England international is still on FSG’s radar despite Chelsea’s stance that they are not entertaining any offers this summer.
Last summer, Chelsea valued Colwill at around £68 million, a price tag that is likely still in place.
Colwill has had a strong campaign for Chelsea after making a name for himself on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion during the 2022/23 season. Mauricio Pochettino has praised him, predicting that he “can be one of the greatest centre-backs in England” following his performance on the South Coast.
The 21-year-old center-back returned to Chelsea last summer aiming to secure a prominent role at Stamford Bridge. However, injuries resulted in his frequent use as a left-back.
This adaptability highlights his dynamism and versatility. Yet, Colwill sees himself primarily as a central defender, and Liverpool can provide him with the role he seeks, promising him the position of Virgil van Dijk’s understudy and a clear path to becoming his successor.
StatsBomb has previously described Colwill as ‘the most similar’ player to the Liverpool captain. His comprehensive skill set has significantly contributed to Liverpool’s success under Klopp.
Despite spending much of the second half of the season on the sidelines, Colwill still made an impression with his 32 appearances in the 2023/24 season.
| Premier League 23/24: Levi Colwill vs Virgil van Dijk | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stat | Levi Colwill | Virgil Van Dijk |
| Matches played | 23 | 36 |
| Matches started | 20 | 36 |
| Goals | 1 | 2 |
| Assists | 1 | 2 |
| Clean sheets | 4 | 9 |
| Pass completion | 85% | 91% |
| Touches per game | 62.5 | 90.8 |
| Tackles per game | 2.1 | 1.1 |
| Clearances per game | 2.8 | 3.9 |
| Recoveries per game | 4.2 | 4.7 |
| Dribbles per game | 0.5 (69%) | 0.1 (50%) |
| Duels won per game | 5.0 (65%) | 5.4 (76%) |
| All stats via Sofascore | ||
The talent earning £100k per week has some progress to make before he can match the level of the Netherlands phenom. However, there are visible signs of potential success. His versatility will be advantageous as he continues to develop his style in the coming years.
According to FBref, the defender is among the top 11% of his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions. Additionally, he ranks in the top 15% for progressive carries, the top 10% for successful take-ons, and the top 6% for tackles per 90 minutes.
Colwill’s dynamic and vigorous style, paired with exceptional technical skill, has positioned him among the top ball-players in the Premier League.
He would be a significant addition to Liverpool’s first team, prepared to fulfill a vital role for Slot. But what makes the Chelsea star such an enticing option?
How Levi Colwill Could Fit in at Liverpool
Left-footed players are highly valued at Liverpool this season, particularly when considering the ideal new centre-back addition. Yoro represents the pinnacle of this pursuit. Still a teenager, he would be gradually integrated into Slot’s system, initially playing a supporting role behind Ibrahima Konate and Van Dijk.
Another prospect to consider is Jarell Quansah, aged 21, who anticipates a secondary but still significant role in Liverpool’s new era.
Yoro is widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents, with talent scout Jacek Kulig describing him as ‘world-class material’. He epitomizes a more traditional style, excelling in pass completion and favoring a secure, cautious approach akin to Arsenal’s William Saliba.
In the realm of football, the spotlight often falls on promising talents poised to make a significant impact. Colwill stands out as one such talent, blending enterprising spirit with robust defensive prowess essential for shielding the goal and influencing attacking plays.
While Yoro may possess a higher potential, Colwill has already proven his mettle in the demanding arena of the Premier League, showcasing his tactical sharpness. Praised as a “Rolls-Royce” by Kulig, his abilities command respect.
Looking ahead, despite Van Dijk’s ongoing contributions under Slot’s management, it’s evident the 33-year-old Dutchman is approaching the twilight of his Liverpool career. This impending transition underscores the need for a successor like Colwill, whose skills align seamlessly with the demands of Anfield’s backline.
In the scenario where pursuing Yoro proves challenging, Colwill emerges as a compelling alternative, uniquely suited to assume a pivotal role in Liverpool’s defensive setup. His potential to fill the void left by established players like Van Dijk signifies a strategic investment in the club’s future stability and success.
In other Liverpool news, Times Chief Reporter Drops Leny Yoro Transfer Claim After Liverpool Told to Watch for Summer ‘Bomb’