Liverpool’s Transfer Vision: Zeno Debast Emerges as the New Defensive Target 🔴
Liverpool’s transfer strategy continues to make waves across Europe, with reports again linking the Reds to some of football’s brightest defensive talents. After months of scouting and analysis, a new name has entered the conversation — Zeno Debast, the gifted 21-year-old Belgian centre-back who has impressed with his calmness, composure, and intelligent distribution.
The Reds have long admired Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, but Debast’s rapid rise at Sporting Lisbon has made him a serious alternative. The shift signals Arne Slot’s vision for Liverpool’s backline — one built on technical ability, control, and tactical intelligence.
The Guehi Pursuit — Still Alive, But Complicated
For much of 2024, Guehi has been viewed as Liverpool’s priority target. Strong, composed, and a natural leader, the England international embodies many of the traits Slot values in defenders. However, with Crystal Palace unwilling to sell midseason, any move is now expected to be delayed until next summer.
That delay has prompted Liverpool’s recruitment team to explore other options — and Debast’s name keeps resurfacing.
Debast: The Modern Defender Liverpool Crave
Reports from Portugal and Belgium describe Debast as a defender with “exceptional passing ability” and “elite game reading.” His background as a midfielder gives him a unique understanding of how to control possession and build from the back — a perfect fit for Slot’s playing philosophy.
Sporting, however, are known to drive a hard bargain. Debast’s contract runs until 2029, and any deal would likely require a significant transfer fee. Yet Liverpool see him not just as a backup option, but as a long-term investment — someone who could anchor the defence for years to come.
Portuguese sources also claim that Ousmane Diomande (Sporting), Sven Botman (Newcastle), and Willian Pacho (PSG) remain on Liverpool’s shortlist. The club’s recruitment strategy clearly revolves around youth, leadership, and technical quality — preparing for the post–Van Dijk era while the captain is still performing at the highest level.
Competition Heats Up
Liverpool are not alone in their admiration for Debast. Manchester United, Arsenal, Borussia Dortmund, and Napoli are all said to be monitoring the young Belgian, increasing the pressure on Liverpool to act decisively. But the Reds’ reputation for developing talent — combined with Slot’s growing influence — could prove a decisive advantage.
Salah’s Record, Olise Links & Squad Watch
While transfer rumours swirl, Mohamed Salah continues to make history. The Egyptian forward became the highest scorer in African World Cup qualifying history, helping Egypt secure their place at the 2026 finals. That achievement means Salah will feature in two major tournaments within six months — a testament to his consistency and elite mentality.
Meanwhile, Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise has been identified as a potential long-term replacement should Salah eventually depart. Journalist Lewis Steele suggests the French winger could be a realistic summer option given his creativity and technical flair.
Elsewhere, Alexis Mac Allister faces a travel headache after Argentina’s final friendly was rescheduled in the U.S., potentially affecting his availability for Liverpool’s next clash with Manchester United.
Ibrahima Konaté continues light training with France but reportedly feels no discomfort — positive news for a player crucial to Slot’s defensive plans.
Managing Minutes and Building the Future
Following a demanding stretch of seven matches in 21 days, data from This Is Anfield shows that Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai each played 540 minutes, the most in the squad. Ryan Gravenberch followed with 512 minutes, highlighting Slot’s reliance on key players.
With international duty adding to the load, Liverpool’s staff remain cautious, giving players like Mac Allister, Conor Bradley, and others controlled rest after disrupted summers. It’s a delicate balance between maintaining rhythm and avoiding fatigue.
Elsewhere in Football
- Aston Villa’s Youri Tielemans is out for five weeks with a calf injury, ruling him out of Liverpool’s November 1 fixture.
- Burnley’s ownership group has completed a takeover of LaLiga side Espanyol, mirroring FSG’s ambitions for multi-club expansion.
- At Old Trafford, Manchester United are reportedly giving Ruben Amorim three years to prove himself, despite an inconsistent record.
On This Day: When the Floodlights First Shone
On October 9, 1957, Liverpool and Everton made Merseyside history as floodlights were used for the first time at Goodison Park. The event celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Liverpool County FA and was so popular that it inspired the annual Floodlit Challenge Cup — a tradition that began with 58,000 fans watching Everton win the first leg 2–0 before Liverpool triumphed 3–2 in the return.
The Bigger Picture
As the January window approaches, Liverpool’s focus remains clear: strengthen smartly, evolve the squad, and sustain success. Whether it’s Guehi, Debast, or another rising star, the club’s strategy is long-term and deliberate.
With Salah rewriting records, Van Dijk still leading by example, and Slot crafting a new identity built on intelligence and control, Liverpool are once again laying the foundations for something special.
At Anfield, the next chapter is already being written — quietly, strategically, and with one goal in mind: to build a team ready to rule again.
