Liverpool have reportedly identified Ruben Semedo as the latest target for the centre-back crisis, with the Portuguese international valued at €20 million.
According to Portuguese television network Sic Noticias, as relayed by Giannis Chorianopoulos, Ruben Semedo is the subject of interest from Liverpool over a possible move in the January transfer window. The 26-year-old Portuguese international has a €20 million price tag.
Ruben Semedo is the classic journeyman, having represented as many as seven clubs in a seven-year senior footballing career. Presently at Olympiacos, the 26-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for the Greek outfit since arriving in Piraeus in the summer of 2019.
Over the past 14 months or so, the Portuguese international has gone on to turn out over 50 times for Olympiacos. But, it now looks like Semedo could possibly be on his way to yet another club, with Liverpool showing an interest in him.
Liverpool are in all sorts of trouble, with Jurgen Klopp’s squad ravaged by injuries and COVID-19 scares just two months into the new season. Defence, in particular, has been laid bare as after Virgil van Dijk was rendered sidelined for the remainder of the season, Joe Gomez is the latest to sustain a long-term knee issue that will keep him out for several months.
On top of that, Joel Matip – the only other recognised senior centre-back at Klopp’s disposal – has been quite injury-prone lately, leaving the Liverpool boss with youngsters like Nat Phillips and Rhys Williams as the only other central defenders available to him. Otherwise, Klopp could utilise Fabinho as a makeshift centre-back, and has also been suggested to use Jordan Henderson as one.
However, once the summer transfer window opens, it will be imperative for Liverpool to bolster the heart of their defence, with Milan Skriniar named as one of their targets. Semedo is the latest name on their shortlist, with his price tag making him an appealing prospect for Liverpool.
Sic Noticias (h/t Giannis Chorianopoulos) have claimed that Olympiacos value Semedo at €20 million, a figure that could make him a risk-free signing to a great extent. However, with several players on their radar, it looks like the hunt for a centre-back could be an extensive one for Liverpool.
The Premier League champions could also scour the prospect of reinforcing their defence by making an emergency signing, with Daryl Janmaat offered to them. As far as Semedo is concerned, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool are seriously interested in signing the 26-year-old Portuguese international or if they turn their attention to some other centre-back.
