Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has hinted that Jarell Quansah may not have a long-term future at Anfield following a season of limited game time.
Quansah, who has Ghanaian heritage, was used sparingly during Liverpool’s 2024/25 Premier League title-winning campaign, appearing in only a handful of matches.
He has featured in just 23 games, accumulating just over 1,100 minutes.
His lack of minutes has raised doubts about his role under incoming manager Arne Slot.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Murphy said: “(Virgil) Van Dijk is staying and will be the mainstay, so whether there is an addition depends on Arne Slot’s view on Joe (Gomez) and Jarell Quansah.
“The amount of minutes they have played this season is very limited, so that suggests to me that he wants some back-up there.”
Murphy stressed the need for Liverpool to reinforce their defence over the summer, particularly given Van Dijk’s advancing age.
“Virgil is coming up to 34 so they will want to get someone who will play a lot of games. If Van Dijk gets injured there is no-one there with anywhere near his presence,” he added.
He also discussed potential targets for Liverpool, mentioning Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, and more experienced Premier League defenders such as Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite.
“They are used to the Premier League and all different. Van de Ven has got lightning pace, Guehi has physicality, although he is not the biggest, a real calmness and leadership. Branthwaite maybe doesn’t have the athleticism but is a real presence,” Murphy explained.
Murphy concluded by highlighting the importance of maintaining defensive stability.
“If you could guarantee Gomez would be fit you might not use up your budget there. Van Dijk’s durability at his age, and Ibrahima Konate as well, have been a huge reason why Liverpool have been so good, but I think centre-half will be looked at.”
