The RB Leipzig defender, currently on loan at Sunderland, is Anfield’s top target to bolster a defense struggling for consistency.
Liverpool have officially entered the race to sign Lutsharel Geertruida, as Arne Slot looks to reunite with one of his most trusted lieutenants from his Feyenoord days. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Reds have already initiated contacts to explore a deal for the 25-year-old Dutchman.
The Sunderland Complication
Geertruida’s current situation is a rare “transfer triangle.” While he officially belongs to RB Leipzig, he is currently on a season-long loan at Sunderland, where he has been a standout performer in the Premier League.
For a move to Anfield to materialize before the deadline, all three parties must agree to an early termination of his loan. Liverpool are banking on the player’s desire to work with Slot again and Sunderland’s potential willingness to accept a compensation fee.
Why Geertruida? Tactical Versatility
The Dutch international is the ultimate “modern defender.” Highly regarded for his ability to play as both a right-back and a right-sided center-back, he fits perfectly into Slot’s fluid system.
- Hybrid Role: He is adept at “inverting” into midfield or dropping into a back three during possession.
- Tactical Intelligence: Known for his calm ball distribution and anticipation rather than raw pace, Geertruida is seen as the ideal profile to stabilize a defense that has conceded more than expected this season.
Liverpool’s Top Four Battle
The urgency for signings comes as Liverpool find themselves in an uncharacteristic 6th place with 39 points. While the title race seems out of reach with Arsenal (53 pts) and Man City (47 pts) pulling away—the battle for the Champions League spots is fierce.
With Manchester United (41 pts) and Chelsea (40 pts) narrowly ahead, the addition of a versatile defender like Geertruida could be the catalyst Slot needs to bridge the gap in the final stretch of the season.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
