Serie A star maybe heading to Liverpool on a Bosman

Liverpool transfer strategy points to Zeki Celik opportunity

Liverpool’s search for stability at right-back has intensified, with reports from TeamTalk indicating sporting director Richard Hughes is exploring a low-risk move for Roma defender Zeki Celik. With injuries piling up and positional reshuffles exposing the squad’s depth, the Merseyside club are keen to secure a reliable option ahead of next season.

Celik, a Turkey international with 138 appearances for Roma, is reportedly out of contract soon and available for a cut-price or free-agent deal. That combination of experience, tactical versatility and affordability makes him an appealing solution for Liverpool’s recruitment team.

According to the original source, Celik’s agent Fazil Ozdemir dismissed speculation of an agreement with Juventus, stating: “Rumours that Zeki has reached an agreement with a club are inaccurate. He currently plays for a major club, and it’s natural for major teams in Italy and England to show interest.”

That statement has opened the door for Liverpool to act quickly. Hughes has built a reputation for identifying value signings, and Celik’s wage profile, reported at around £43,000 per week, aligns with the club’s sustainable model.

Injury concerns expose right-back depth

Liverpool’s defensive planning has been shaped by a difficult season on the right flank. Injuries to Jeremie Frimpong, Conor Bradley and Joe Gomez forced midfielders into unfamiliar defensive roles. While stop-gap solutions worked in patches, they exposed the need for a dependable specialist.

Zeki Celik fits the profile of a conventional right-back who can also play in a back three, offering tactical flexibility. His defensive positioning and crossing accuracy could complement Liverpool’s attacking system, particularly if the club transitions to more structured build-up patterns under evolving tactical ideas.

There is also a longer-term consideration. If Liverpool choose to deploy Frimpong further forward, Celik’s experience could stabilise the defensive structure behind him. In a season where defensive injuries disrupted rhythm, adding a seasoned professional makes strategic sense.

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van de Ven chase adds intrigue to Liverpool rebuild

Beyond the right flank, Liverpool are monitoring centre-back options, with TeamTalk reporting interest in Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven. The Dutch defender is attracting attention amid uncertainty at Spurs, and Liverpool see him as a long-term investment.

Van de Ven’s pace, ball progression and defensive awareness would suit Liverpool’s high line. With doubts over certain centre-back contracts and rotation options, adding a 24-year-old international could future-proof the defence.

Competition will be fierce. Manchester United and Real Madrid are also tracking van de Ven, meaning Liverpool would need Champions League football or a strong sporting pitch to convince him. Still, Liverpool’s record of developing defenders and competing for honours remains a compelling argument.

Transfer outlook for Liverpool defence

Liverpool’s potential moves for Zeki Celik and van de Ven highlight a broader defensive recalibration. Rather than chasing headline signings, the club appear focused on intelligent recruitment that balances cost, experience and long-term value.

Celik offers immediate depth at right-back, while van de Ven represents a premium target to strengthen central defence. Together, they illustrate Liverpool’s dual-track strategy: secure affordable reliability now and pursue elite talent where it matters most.

TeamTalk’s report suggests this summer could reshape Liverpool’s defensive identity. If Hughes lands Celik on favourable terms and pushes for van de Ven, the club would address two key vulnerabilities without destabilising the wage structure.

For supporters, the message is clear. Liverpool’s recruitment department is working with precision, targeting players who fit the tactical blueprint and financial model. Whether Zeki Celik arrives at Anfield or van de Ven chooses Merseyside over rival suitors, Liverpool’s defensive rebuild is well under way.