Liverpool have abandoned their attempts to sign an "exceptional" replacement for Jarell Quansah due to a huge bid from the Saudi Pro League. The Liverpool squad have made significant reinforcements this summer and still have the option to continue signings as they look to build on last season's successes. However, a key target is now out of reach due to the financial strength of the Saudi Pro League.
Liverpool are in the market to strengthen their defence following the sale of Jarell Quansah, while Bournemouth have yet to sign a replacement for Dean Huijsen.
The English club have shown interest in Nantes defender Nathan Zeze, who is on the radar of several Premier League clubs. However, he has received a huge offer from Neom SC, a new club in the Saudi Pro League, making it difficult for Liverpool and Bournemouth to match the terms of the offer made by the Saudi team.
Nantes have agreed a €25m (£21.5m) deal, which in theory would have been met by European clubs, but the terms in Saudi Arabia have been more attractive to the player. A source confirmed that this is a surprising development for many in Europe, making Zeze a player with a bright future who could have moved to England or Spain but has now chosen to play in Saudi Arabia.
With Quansah's transfer completed and several players' contracts uncertain, Liverpool must now consider other options for defensive reinforcements. Another name being talked about is Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, who has made a name for himself as one of the best defenders in the Premier League. Liverpool have been tracking him for over a year and remain interested in signing him, however, the Crystal Palace owner is unwilling to sell the player for a reduced fee.
