With Ibrahima Konate attracting interest from Real Madrid and Virgil van Dijk clearly past his prime, it was unsurprising to see Liverpool bid for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.
The teenage centre-back has established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting defenders, attracting the attention of numerous suitors across the continent.
Possessing a £50m release clause that could be paid in three installments, this move felt like a no-brainer for the greatest teams in Europe, although Liverpool have now regretfully missed out on his signature.
Indeed, it was confirmed on Saturday that Madrid had reached a contract to bring the 20-year-old to the Bernabeu this summer.
Liverpool could sign amazing Huijsen alternative
There appear to be several defenders on Liverpool’s radar at the moment, with Arne Slot looking to bolster not only in the centre of defence but also at full back.
Jeremie Frimpong appears to be in line to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Milos Kerkez and Rayan Ait-Nouri are two names being mentioned as potential left-back replacements for Andy Robertson.
In terms of centre-back alternatives, they might compensate for Huijsen’s departure by signing Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato.
According to Fabrizio Romano of GIVEMESPORT, Hato is “one of the players appreciated at Liverpool,” but “let’s see what Arsenal decides to do,” implying that the Gunners are intrigued.
Liverpool may have to pay a similar fee to Huijsen, with Ajax allegedly valuing the 19-year-old at £42 million.
How Hato compares to Huijsen
Scout Jacek Kulig described the adolescent as “one of the most talented CBs of his generation in Europe.” Fine praise, but what distinguishes him?
Well, as data analyst Ben Mattinson writes, the Dutchman is an “exceptional athlete” who can “carry through the lines”, much in the same way Huijsen can.
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They have similar features, but Hato has one advantage: he can play both left-back and center-back.
If Liverpool are hunting for their future Van Dijk replacement, considering Hato boasts natural leadership skills, he ticks all the boxes here for Slot and Co.
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