Former Liverpool midfielder Didi Hamann has made a surprising recommendation for his old club, urging them to consider signing Manchester United defender Harry Maguire on a free transfer next summer. This bold suggestion comes as Liverpool look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the upcoming season.
Defensive Reinforcements Needed at Anfield
Liverpool are expected to enter the transfer market for defensive reinforcements, particularly with Ibrahima Konate's contract set to expire this summer. The Reds had previously targeted Marc Guehi last summer, only to see that deal collapse on deadline day before the Crystal Palace captain joined Manchester City earlier this month.
Even if Konate signs a new deal, manager Arne Slot is reportedly keen to add more defensive cover. Liverpool's current options have been stretched thin due to injuries to key players like Giovanni Leoni and Joe Gomez, creating an urgent need for reliable depth at the back.
Hamann's Case for Maguire
Hamann believes Maguire could provide exactly the kind of experienced cover Liverpool require. "You've got to give it to Harry Maguire because he got so much stick in the last few years and he always comes back," Hamann told CasinoBeats. "If he's available on a free then obviously you have to think about it because I think what Liverpool need is more depth at the back."
The England international has enjoyed something of a resurgence in recent weeks, having returned to Manchester United's starting lineup under interim manager Michael Carrick. His improved form has demonstrated the resilience that Hamann believes could benefit Liverpool's defensive unit.
Contract Situation and Alternatives
When asked about Maguire's contract situation before United's recent win over Arsenal, Carrick responded: "I think it's just coming into that time of the season really, with contracts and, obviously, January is January and the window, so I'm kind of working my way through that and coming towards the end of the season, in terms of contracts and decisions."
Hamann also identified two other potential defensive targets for Liverpool, mentioning Tottenham's Mickey van de Ven and Borussia Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck as possible partners for Virgil van Dijk next season. "Mickey van de Ven is doing really well for Spurs and there's a player at Dortmund, Nico Schlotterbeck," Hamann added.
Regarding Schlotterbeck specifically, Hamann noted: "He's in talks with the club on whether he's going to extend his contract. Schlotterbeck has really taken on a leading role at Dortmund in the last 18 months. He is probably our best centre-back in the national team. He'll certainly play at the World Cup for Germany. He'd be a player. He's got one year left on the contract. I'm sure that Liverpool inquired about him. He wouldn't be the worst choice. He's a left-footed player as well."
Transfer Market Realities
Reports have already suggested Liverpool are developing interest in Van de Ven, who has been one of Tottenham's standout performers this season under manager Thomas Frank. However, the north London club are said to be demanding a record £100 million fee for the Dutch defender, who remains under contract until 2029.
When questioned about potential interest in Van de Ven last week, Frank stated: "He's definitely a player we should prioritise. Micky is a key player for this team and this club and hopefully for many years to come. He has what it takes to be an even better player and I've no doubt he can help us to get us to where we want to be in the future."
Hamann's suggestion represents a potentially controversial but financially prudent approach for Liverpool, who could secure experienced Premier League quality without a transfer fee. The move would certainly add an intriguing new chapter to the historic rivalry between England's two most successful clubs.
