Both Liverpool and Manchester United are actively seeking new center-back options for the upcoming 2024 season. Fabrizio Romano confirmed Manchester United’s pursuit of a top center-back in an October conversation with Caught Offside, suggesting the possibility of various names being linked to the club.
In contrast, Liverpool seems uninterested in extending Joel Matip’s contract, as per reports from The Liverpool Echo indicating a lack of efforts in negotiating a new deal for the 32-year-old defender. Meanwhile, Liverpool has shown interest in Lloyd Kelly from Bournemouth, a versatile player adept in both center-back and left-back positions, aligning with Liverpool’s preferences.
Romano mentioned several potential targets for Manchester United, including Goncalo Inacio (Sporting Lisbon), Antonio Silva (Benfica), Jean-Clair Todibo (Nice), and Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen). Interestingly, Inacio has captured the attention of both clubs, with recent reports suggesting Liverpool’s eagerness to secure the 22-year-old’s signature. Despite interest from Real Madrid and Barcelona, Liverpool reportedly leads the race and is ready to trigger Inacio’s release clause, valuing him at around €60m.
Liverpool’s offer includes a substantial guarantee: a starting position for Inacio at Anfield. This assurance differs from the competition, potentially placing Liverpool ahead in the race for the defender. This commitment might impact the starting lineup, potentially affecting Ibrahima Konate’s position or prompting a shift for Virgil van Dijk to the right side, a departure from his usual left center-back role.
Meanwhile, Manchester United appears to have shifted their focus to Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice, according to The Mirror. The potential £40m move could be facilitated by the influence of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is set to acquire a 25 percent stake in United and also owns the French club Nice.
While Liverpool’s interest in Inacio may stir interest at Old Trafford, Manchester United seems to have diverted their attention, giving priority to Todibo for a potential January move.
