Report: Liverpool now make contact to sign EURO 2024 defender who has been compared to John Stones

Liverpool have now made contact to sign a defender who is currently away with his country at UEFA EURO 2024.

Michael Edwards – CEO of Football at Anfield – is searching for a new central defender after Joel Matip departed at the end of last season, following the expiry of his contract.

There is admiration for Lille No.15 Leny Yoro – although the Frenchman is keen on a move to Real Madrid, TBR Football understands.

Now – according to reports elsewhere – Liverpool have enquired about one of Europe’s most precocious defenders as the hunt for alternatives begins…

Liverpool make contact to sign Riccardo Calafiori

A story from The Athletic now claims that Liverpool have been in touch with Bologna to ask about signing Riccardo Calafiori this summer.

The Italy international – who has been compared to Manchester City No.5 and England international John Stones – enjoyed a standout 2023/24 campaign as he helped Bologna qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

It is said that Newcastle, Brighton and West Ham have also asked about Calafiori – although Bologna are determined to keep him.

Photo by Kevin Voigt/GettyImages

There is also further competition for Liverpool to fend off in the form of Juventus – who The Athletic add are currently favourites to sign him after hiring Thiago Motta, who coached the Italian at Bologna last season.

The talented 22-year-old made 30 appearances in Serie A last term, scoring two goals while also providing five assists from centre-back.

Michael Edwards is also looking at another UEFA EURO 2024 star

Calafiori is not the only central defender starring at UEFA EURO 2024 who is an option for Liverpool.

A story from the Daily Mail claims that Liverpool are also fans of Crystal Palace No.6 and England international Marc Guehi – who seriously impressed Gary Lineker and Rio Ferdinand with his performance against Serbia on Sunday.

Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

With Edwards keeping a close eye on Yoro, Calafiori and also Guehi, it would be a surprise if Liverpool failed to sign at least one new central defender this summer.

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Be sure to keep an eye on developments at Anfield, as any of these three could soon link up with Arne Slot on Merseyside…