Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for a free-agent right-back from Italy this summer as they continue to struggle for stability following the exit of Trent Alexander-Arnold. At the same time, an elite centre-back target is prepared to turn his back on a Premier League rival, potentially paving the way for a dramatic transfer to Anfield.
The Reds have faced constant problems at right-back this season, with Jeremie Frimpong, Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez all dealing with injury setbacks. This has forced midfielders such as Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones to fill in as makeshift defenders.
There is growing discussion that Frimpong could be converted into a right-sided winger, based on his impressive performances in a wing-back role at former club Bayer Leverkusen. Added to this are increasing concerns that Mohamed Salah may head to Saudi Arabia this summer.
Against that backdrop, fresh reports from Italy suggest Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is preparing a move for a seasoned star from Roma.
Liverpool want Turkey star to fill problem position
The player in question is Turkey international Zeki Celik. The 29-year-old Roma defender is out of contract in 2026, with no renewal agreement currently in place in the Italian capital.
Celik is primarily a traditional right-back but can also operate as a right-sided centre-back in a back three, underlining his tactical flexibility.
It had been claimed last week that he had reached an agreement to join Juventus in the summer. However, his agent Fazil Ozdemir denied reports of a move to Turin, which could work in Liverpool’s favour.
That statement, carried by Calciomercato, read:
“Reports that Zeki has agreed terms with another club are not true.
“He currently represents a top club, and it is normal for leading teams in Italy and England to follow a player of his level and for his name to be linked with them.
“His contract with Roma expires at the end of the season, but he holds great respect for the club. Right now, he is not concentrating on transfer or contract matters.
“His focus is fully on helping Roma reach their objectives. All other issues will be addressed in due time, professionally and respectfully.”
Celik, who has made 138 appearances for Roma, could become a cost-effective signing for Liverpool, as he earns roughly £43,000 per week in Italy.
With a Juventus switch now unlikely, a potential Liverpool approach could become one to watch once his contract officially expires this summer.
Van de Ven chase ramps up
SportNews2 can reveal that Liverpool and Manchester United are both closely tracking the situation of Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven, who is open to leaving north London this summer.
The 24-year-old centre-back has attracted strong interest amid a difficult Spurs campaign, with the club battling relegation after dismissing Thomas Frank and appointing Igor Tudor as interim head coach.
Sources suggest Van de Ven is seriously considering his future, especially with contract negotiations on hold until the season’s conclusion.
Liverpool have long admired the Dutch defender, having monitored him closely during his spell in Germany before his move to Tottenham.
Although they previously cooled their interest, the Reds are now actively seeking defensive reinforcements this summer due to concerns surrounding soon-to-be free agent Ibrahima Konate.
However, if Manchester United qualify for the Champions League, they would also become strong contenders for Van de Ven’s signature.
Real Madrid could represent the most ambitious destination of all, with the Spanish giants having followed the Dutchman’s progress for several years.
More Liverpool news: Szoboszlai new deal timeline; Six-club Robertson chase
Sources remain confident that Dominik Szoboszlai is set to agree a new contract with Liverpool, with a timeline already in place for when an announcement could be made. A respected journalist has also played down rumors linking the Hungarian with a blockbuster move to Real Madrid this summer.
Elsewhere, Liverpool and Real Madrid are said to be monitoring left-back Andrea Cambiaso, just months after former Juventus boss Igor Tudor suggested the Italy international could move to Madrid or Merseyside.
Finally, the identities of six clubs interested in signing Andy Robertson on a free transfer have emerged, while Liverpool have also been linked with a €70m-rated left-back who would challenge Milos Kerkez for a starting role.
