Liverpool 'advancing in talks' to sign 'the next William Saliba': report

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp celebrates
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Liverpool are looking to bring in defensive solidity to bolster their Premier League title bid.

The Reds continued on their march in four competitions over the weekend, beating Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in the FA Cup third round. But while the attack has been glittering this season, the defensive side of things at Anfield has been questioned at times. 

Virgil van Dijk missed the game yesterday, replaced by Jarell Quansah, with limited depth in defence available to Jurgen Klopp.

Jurgen Klopp and Virgil van Dijk applaud Liverpool's fans after the 0-0 draw against Manchester United in December 2023.

Virgil van Dijk is still imperative to Liverpool's defence (Image credit: Getty Images)

French outlet Le10Sport have claimed, however, that Liverpool are "advancing in talks" for Lille teenager, Leny Yoro, as Klopp looks to bring quality into the backline.

Named as one of FFT's 50 most exciting teenagers to watch this season, Yoro has been a revelation in Ligue 1 this term, drawing comparisons to the likes of William Saliba for his strength and physicality in the backline. Already, he's played 28 times at senior level.

With Les Dogues said to be demanding around £75 million for their youngster, a deal may not come cheap – but Klopp and co. may well look to structure a move for a superstar who's still just 18.

Lille's French defender #15 Leny Yoro celebrates with an opening goal during the French L1 football match between Stade Rennais FC and Lille LOSC at The Roazhon Park Stadium in Rennes, western France on September 16, 2023.

Leny Yoro is a target for Liverpool (Image credit: SEBASTIEN SALOM-GOMIS/AFP via Getty Images)

Real Madrid are said to be interested in Yoro, too, with Los Blancos currently without Eder Militao and David Alaba in their back four.

Yoro is valued at €25m, according to Transfermarkt

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Mark White
Content Editor

Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.