Liverpool keen on signing Brighton defender Luka Vuskovic

Liverpool are reportedly keen on signing Brighton and Hove Albion defender Luka Vuskovic, as per transfer journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The Reds currently have Jeremy Jacquet, Ronald Araujo, Giovanni Leoni, Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk as specialist centre-back options. However, Araujo has mainly featured as a right-back this season, while Leoni has been out injured over the last 12 months.

On the other hand, Gomez has struggled with fitness problems in recent years and has entered the final year of his current contract. Van Dijk has also entered the final few months of his existing deal and has reached the twilight of his career.

Therefore, it appears Liverpool have started exploring options to strengthen the defence. On X, Plettenberg states that the Merseyside club have identified Vuskovic as a serious option after being impressed by his recent development at Brighton.

Liverpool have been monitoring him closely before making a potential swoop next summer. However, Brighton don’t want to let him leave for cheap as he still has a contract until 2031.

The Seagulls want around £83m[€100m] if they are ultimately forced to let him leave. The journalist even says that Vuskovic is happy to continue his development under Fabian Hurzeler and his dream is to play for Real Madrid in the future.

Plettenberg wrote:

“Liverpool have Luka Vuskovic on their shortlist for next summer. The 19 y/o top defender is being monitored regularly. His contract at Brighton is valid until 2031. No release clause will be available next summer. Current price valuation: around €100m (+/-). Vuskovic is very happy under Fabian Hürzeler. However, his dream is to join Real Madrid one day.”

Vuskovic to Liverpool

After moving to AMEX Stadium from Tottenham Hotspur, the 19-year-old has enjoyed a promising start this season, making two goal contributions and keeping six clean sheets across all competitions.

Moreover, he has been helping his side mount a title charge in the Premier League, sitting second in the table with 22 points from 10 matches. Brighton are currently five points behind table-topper Arsenal.

Having proven his worth in club football, the youngster has secured his place in the Croatia national team.

Vuskovic, standing at 6ft 4in tall, is a technically gifted right-footed centre-back. He is comfortable playing out from the back, good in the air, can chip in with some important goals, and is efficient in defensive contributions.

Vuskovic has shown glimpses of his qualities in the Premier League and could be a shrewd acquisition for Liverpool should they purchase him.