Liverpool still need a new centre-back this summer - but transfer options are running out

Few clubs are more acutely aware of the need for defensive strength in depth, given the way in which Liverpool's Premier League title defence in 2020-21 was completely undermined by injuries to Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip.

Even with most of their central defenders fully fit last season, Liverpool looked dreadfully vulnerable at the back, conceding 47 goals in the Premier League alone.

Obviously, that poor defensive record was significantly impacted by the struggles of several midfielders, particularly Fabinho, the man regarded as Liverpool's lighthouse because of the way in which he had been dealing with danger for the previous four seasons. So, the acquisition of a highly promising player like Lavia should, in theory, alleviate Liverpool's defensive issues.

Signing another centre-back is just as important, though, and the problem is that several of the players previously under consideration are no longer available.

Kim Min-jae, for example, has been snapped up by Bayern Munich, who activated the €50 million (£43m/$55m) buy-out clause in the South Korean's contract after his stellar season at Napoli. Arsenal, meanwhile, moved just as quickly to sign the wonderfully versatile Jurrien Timber from Ajax.

Levi Colwill is still technically obtainable, but the England Under-21 international has agreed a new, long-term contract with Chelsea, who have also thus far resisted all attempts by Brighton to make the Blues academy product a part of a deal for Caicedo. Colwill would have been a dream signing for Liverpool - but there is no longer any chance of it becoming a reality.

In addition, Josko Gvardiol, arguably the best young centre-back in the world and a former transfer target of Liverpool's, is apparently keen to sign for Manchester City. The only issue there is RB Leipzig are refusing to lower their €100 million (£86m/$110m) asking price. It's difficult, therefore, to imagine Liverpool being in a position to hijack that particular deal, much as Klopp would dearly love to add the Croatian to his back-line.

So, what options do Liverpool have left available to them, with less than a month to go before the transfer window closes? GOAL runs through the leading contenders below...

Still only 21 years of age but Liverpool scouts spent plenty of time watching January signing from PSV Cody Gakpo during the first half of last season and were very impressed with Branthwaite's performances during his loan spell in Eindhoven.

However, Everton would obviously do everything within their power to prevent Branthwaite, who can also play at left-back, becoming the first player to cross Stanley Park since Abel Xavier just over 20 years ago.

Guehi favours his right foot but he has been regularly deployed on the left-hand side of the Crystal Palace defence, making him a viable option for Liverpool. He is, after all, a proven Premier League talent with four England caps to his name who has been previously linked with Arsenal.

However, Crystal Palace are under no pressure to sell a very valuable asset who still has three years remaining on his current contract. It would take a massive bid to even get the Eagles to the negotiating table.

Liverpool had a long look at Manuel Ugarte before his summer switch to Paris Saint-Germain, so it's unsurprising that they also noted the impressive performances of another Sporting CP starlet.

Inacio won't turn 22 until next month, but he has already been a first-team regular in Lisbon for two seasons, while he looks set to become a key part of Roberto Martinez's Portugal reign after being handed his international debut by the Spanish coach earlier this year. However, it is thought that Inacio has a €45m buy-out clause in his contract, making him an attractive proposition.

The Dutchman has been linked with Liverpool for some time now, given he's left-footed, strong in the air, comfortable on the ball and also has the pace required to play in a high line. But it was thought that Van de Ven was on his way to Tottenham last month.

The deal has mysteriously stalled, though, meaning a late move for the £30m-rated Wolfsburg defender could still happen. It seems unlikely at this stage but it certainly wouldn't be the first time that Liverpool have hijacked a Tottenham transfer...

A more experienced option, the 27-year-old Aguerd had his injury issues after joining West Ham from Rennes last summer for around £30m ($38m), but he showcased his qualities during Morocco's remarkable run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

The Hammers certainly won't let Aguerd go on the cheap, while the likes of Napoli are also said to be interested in signing him.