Liverpool Monitoring Jarell Quansah as Van Dijk and Araújo Futures Loom

Liverpool could face a major decision over Jarell Quansah at the end of the season, with the England international potentially offering a solution to two defensive problems at Anfield.

The Bayer Leverkusen defender remains on Liverpool’s radar despite reportedly not being part of the club’s immediate plans for next season.

However, circumstances could change dramatically depending on what happens with Virgil van Dijk and Ronald Araújo.

With Van Dijk’s contract reportedly expiring next summer and Araújo currently on loan from Barcelona, Liverpool could potentially need reinforcements at both centre-back and right-back.

Quansah’s ability to operate in both positions could make him an increasingly attractive option.

Liverpool Could Have Two Defensive Gaps

Liverpool’s defensive situation could look very different next season.

Araújo has reportedly impressed while filling in at right-back during his loan spell, but Liverpool face a decision over whether to trigger his reported £47 million (€55m/$73m) purchase clause.

At centre-back, meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds Van Dijk.

The Liverpool captain’s contract is reportedly due to expire at the end of the season, and increasing speculation suggests the legendary Dutch defender could leave as a free agent.

If both situations develop in Liverpool’s favour—or against it—the Reds could have significant defensive decisions to make.

That’s where Quansah enters the picture.

Jarell Quansah Could Offer Liverpool Versatility

Quansah already knows the club, having come through Liverpool’s academy before leaving for Bayer Leverkusen in 2025.

The 23-year-old has since continued his development in Germany and has reportedly established himself as an important player at club level while also making progress with England.

His biggest attraction for Liverpool could be his versatility.

Quansah can operate at centre-back and right-back, potentially giving Arne Slot an additional option in two positions without needing to sign separate players for each role.

Liverpool reportedly retain a £59.5 million buyback clause, although that option has a deadline in June.

That means the club will eventually have to decide whether Quansah’s development justifies bringing him back to Anfield.

Liverpool Are Monitoring the Situation

According to reports, Liverpool are continuing to monitor Quansah but are not currently committed to activating the buyback clause.

That could change over the course of the season.

Liverpool’s recruitment team will have to assess the defender’s performances, his development with Leverkusen and, most importantly, the club’s own defensive requirements before making a final decision.

The situation surrounding Van Dijk could be particularly important.

If the Dutchman departs, Liverpool would suddenly have a much stronger reason to consider bringing Quansah back.

John Aldridge Wants Quansah Back

Liverpool legend John Aldridge believes the decision should be straightforward if Van Dijk leaves.

Aldridge has argued that Quansah’s versatility and familiarity with the club make him an obvious candidate to return.

He also highlighted the potential strength of a Liverpool defensive group featuring Quansah alongside Araújo, Jérémy Jacquet and Giovanni Leoni.

For Aldridge, the need for depth is particularly important.

“For me, it’s a no-brainer.”

The former Liverpool striker also pointed to Quansah’s development since leaving England for Germany, suggesting that his performances have demonstrated that he can compete at the highest level.

Quansah Has Already Changed the Narrative

Quansah’s departure from Liverpool came after a difficult period in which he struggled to establish himself under Slot.

The defender’s limited opportunities at Anfield raised questions over whether he would ever become a regular part of Liverpool’s first-team plans.

His move to Bayer Leverkusen, however, appears to have changed the conversation.

Strong performances in Germany and his progress with England have increased his reputation and could force Liverpool to reconsider their previous assessment.

Now, the club must decide whether to use the buyback clause or allow Quansah to continue his career elsewhere.

The Van Dijk Decision Could Hold the Key

The timing of Liverpool’s decision is crucial.

The reported £59.5 million buyback option expires in June, meaning Liverpool cannot wait indefinitely before making a decision.

Van Dijk’s future is therefore likely to be one of the biggest factors in the equation.

If the veteran defender commits his future to Liverpool, the need for another centre-back could be reduced.

If he leaves, however, Quansah’s ability to step into the squad immediately could make the buyback clause considerably more appealing.

Meanwhile, Liverpool must also decide whether Araújo’s reported purchase option represents better value at right-back.

A Summer Decision With Major Implications

Liverpool’s defensive planning could therefore come down to several interconnected decisions.

Does Van Dijk stay? Does Liverpool sign Araújo permanently? And is Quansah ready to return?

The answers could shape Slot’s defensive options for years to come.

For Quansah, meanwhile, the situation represents a remarkable opportunity. A player who once appeared to be outside Liverpool’s plans could now potentially return as an England international with valuable Bundesliga experience.

Liverpool may not have decided on Quansah yet—but with two potential defensive gaps emerging, the decision could become one of the most important of their summer transfer window.