Paul Gorst hints Liverpool are close to completing centre-back transfer
Liverpool look to be moving nearer to securing a promising young centre-back, according to one of the most trusted journalists covering the club.
Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury has significantly reduced Arne Slot’s defensive options, often leaving the head coach with only three senior centre-backs available, and at times just two when Joe Gomez has been unavailable. That shortage has only intensified frustration over the club’s failure to land Marc Guehi late last summer.
Although the Crystal Palace skipper remains high on Liverpool’s wishlist, competition for his signature has grown, with Manchester City increasingly monitoring the England international. While Guehi is still viewed as the ideal defensive addition, uncertainty around his future has led Liverpool to explore alternative solutions.
Liverpool closing in on Mor Talla Ndiaye deal
On Monday evening, Liverpool Echo reporter Paul Gorst revealed on X that the Reds are “closing in on” an agreement to sign Mor Talla Ndiaye. The Senegalese teenager featured for his country at last year’s Under-17 World Cup and is regarded as a highly promising defensive talent.
The defender, who turns 18 tomorrow, is expected to join Liverpool’s under-21 setup under Rob Page once the move is completed, with Amara Nallo likely to head out on loan later this month.
What Ndiaye could bring to Anfield
While Ndiaye would not provide the immediate, experienced reinforcement Liverpool ideally need this January, landing a highly rated young defender would still be a positive step. The teenager has already caught the eye on the international stage and is seen as a player with considerable long-term potential.
Football Talent Scout analyst Jacek Kulig has described Ndiaye as a tall, powerful left-sided centre-back whose strengths include athleticism, composure, aerial dominance and impressive pace for someone of his size. His physical profile suggests he could adapt well to English football over time.
With his 18th birthday imminent, Ndiaye would be eligible to move to Merseyside immediately. A spell developing in the under-21s could provide a strong foundation as he works toward first-team involvement under Slot.
Should the Senegalese youngster progress as hoped, he could eventually fill Liverpool’s long-standing need for a left-footed centre-back while also boosting depth in a position that has been stretched thin. Based on Gorst’s update, the deal appears to be advancing quickly, and the Reds may soon welcome another exciting prospect to Anfield.
