Bayer Leverkusen are negotiating with Liverpool to sign centre-back Jarell Quansah this summer, according to Sky Sports.
Leverkusen needs to strengthen its backline following the departure of Jonathan Tah to Bayern Munich on a free transfer.
With Odilon Kossounou completing his permanent move to Atalanta for €20 million, Die Werkself are planning to invest in a new centre-back in the transfer window.
Quansah’s future has been the subject of speculation due to the uncertainty over his role with the Reds.
The English defender is behind Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk in the pecking order.
The 22-year-old made 25 appearances in all competitions last season, proving to be a solid back-up for manager Arne Slot.
Newcastle United have expressed interest in Quansah, and the Merseysiders are holding out for around £40 million for him.
Leverkusen have an edge in Quansah’s pursuit due to their good relationship with the Reds, who have raided them for Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong this summer.
The English centre-back would be a solid addition to Leverkusen’s defensive options alongside Piero Hincapie and Edmond Tapsoba.
Quansah will look to showcase his quality in the ongoing European U21 Championship.
He needs to play regularly at the highest level to increase his chances of securing a place in The Three Lions’ squad for the World Cup next year.
Despite losing some key players, Leverkusen will look to sustain their success under new manager Erik ten Hag.
They are keen on recruiting a top-quality attacking midfielder as Wirtz’s replacement, with Nico Paz and Arda Guler topping their wishlist.
