Liverpool's dream defence after four transfers and Alexander-Arnold decision

Liverpool's dream defence - Four transfers, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk decisions

Latest Liverpool transfer news and gossip as the Reds could be set for major changes in defence when the summer transfer window opens

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Even though the summer transfer window is yet to open, Liverpool continue to be linked with several potential new signings. One area of the pitch that seems to be generating the most speculation, though, is the defence.

Part of this is due to the uncertainty surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk. Both players are out of contract in the summer, and it remains unclear if either of the duo will put pen to paper on extensions over the next couple of months.

In Alexander-Arnold's case, the right-back is reportedly close to agreeing a deal to sign with Real Madrid, although that is yet to be confirmed by either Liverpool or Los Blancos. Van Dijk is also out of contract and has been tentatively linked with Paris Saint-Germain as well as Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal.

Should both Alexander-Arnold and Van Dijk both leave the club in the summer, Liverpool would face the prospect of an even busier transfer window than usual. Conor Bradley will hope to step up and take the right-back spot, although the Reds have been linked with Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong over the last few days, who is reported to have a €40million (£33.4million) release clause in his contract.

Liverpool could also look to strengthen at left-back, with Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas their current options. Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez is a target for the Reds, although other players are thought to be on the shortlist going into the summer transfer window.

Kerkez is thought to be valued at around £40million and would likely be signed to compete for a regular starting spot next season. However, it may result in one of Robertson or Tsimikas leaving the club when the transfer window opens.

When it comes to centre-back, if Van Dijk was to leave, it would see Liverpool have Ibrahima Konate, Joe Gomez and Jarell Quansah as their central defensive options. The Reds arguably need reinforcements in the position as it is, never mind if Van Dijk was to leave.

It's also worth remembering the asset that makes Van Dijk one of the best in the world in his position - his availability. The Dutchman plays almost every game for Liverpool, and his departure would mean the Reds would need to replace the minutes he would vacate, as well as his ability.

Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen has been linked with Liverpool over the last few weeks, and is reported to have a £50million release clause in his contract. Real Madrid are also reportedly interested in the Spain international.

The Reds have also been linked with signing Bayer Leverkusen star Jonathan Tah on a free transfer when his contract expires. The signing of the Germany international would certainly add valuable experience to the back four, which could help fill the void left by Van Dijk's absence.

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