The transfer rumors surrounding Alexander Isak have become some of the worst-kept secrets of the year, with links to both Arsenal and Liverpool. However, an interesting twist in these rumors is that Newcastle is now in the market for a center-back and, according to the Mirror, they have set their sights on Liverpool’s 22-year-old defender, Jarell Quansah.
Newcastle appears to have a clear preference when it comes to center-backs. A prime example is Dan Burn, who, at six-foot-seven, contributes significantly to Newcastle’s strength in set-pieces at both ends of the field. Liverpool experienced this firsthand during the Carabao Cup final just before the March international break. At six-foot-five, Quansah, who is only 22, is another defender drawing attention. His physical prowess is matched by his ball skills and strong defensive abilities in both aerial and ground duels.
Liverpool is facing difficulties at center-back. Team captain Virgil van Dijk has yet to agree to a new contract, and his defensive partner, Ibrahima Konate, is entering the final year of his deal this summer without having agreed on an extension. Letting Quansah leave for less than a significant fee would be a mistake.
Looking at Quansah’s stats, he compares impressively to a 25-year-old Virgil van Dijk, which is remarkable for an academy player who only joined the senior squad last season after a series of loan spells in the lower leagues of English football.
Given Newcastle’s interest and Liverpool’s recent long-term contract with Quansah, it would be foolish for the club to let him go for a relatively low £30 million. It would be highly unlikely to find another player with a similar profile, especially a home-grown talent, for that price.
Despite Quansah’s limited appearances this season, after starting the first match against Ipswich, head coach Arne Slot has praised his mental strength and potential. Slot has acknowledged that while Quansah hasn’t played much since, his talent and work ethic were evident last season. Slot also noted Quansah’s recent performances, including his call-up to the senior team during the international break, emphasizing that the young defender has grown and showcased his capabilities, even playing as a right-back.
Slot commended Quansah’s abilities, saying, “He’s strong, fast, very comfortable with the ball, and brings an added quality, as we saw against PSG, with his contribution to set-pieces. He was inches away from helping us qualify for the next round with a header that hit the post.”
As the summer transfer window nears and with injuries to Trent Alexander-Arnold and Conor Bradley, Quansah will have many opportunities to demonstrate his value, especially in the right-back position. His next test will be the Merseyside Derby at Anfield.
