Liverpool to pursue second centre-back after Jacquet deal; Rudiger ruled out of Anfield switch

Liverpool are preparing to strengthen their defensive ranks further this summer, with plans to recruit a second major centre-back following their £60m acquisition of Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes.

The Reds' recruitment department has identified a significant imbalance at the heart of their defence and are determined to rectify the issue ahead of next season. Sources suggest the club is confident of addressing the problem with another substantial signing in that position.

The need for reinforcement at centre-back has become increasingly evident. Liverpool missed out on Marc Guehi, whilst summer recruit Giovanni Leoni has struggled with injuries. Established figures Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk have also disappointed this term, contributing to a disappointing campaign following their Premier League title triumph at the end of 2024/25.

That success came after Liverpool splashed over £400m in the summer window, though the investment has largely backfired. Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz are among the few signings to justify their fees, with others failing to make the expected impact. Coupled with underperformance from key players, the squad's struggles have left Arne Slot's side struggling to mount a convincing defence of their crown.

Several centre-back targets are being considered, but one prominent name has already been crossed off the list. Antonio Rudiger, the 33-year-old Real Madrid defender whose contract expires at the end of the season, will not be heading to Merseyside. Whilst a Premier League return remains possible for the veteran, Liverpool view him as too advanced in years for their current project trajectory.

Tottenham, meanwhile, are understood to be far more interested in bringing Rudiger's experience to North London, positioning themselves as the likely destination should he opt for an English return.