Liverpool Weigh Surprise Return for Former Defender Sold Last Summer

Reports suggest the Reds are actively discussing the possibility of re-signing Jarell Quansah from Bayer Leverkusen, as part of an evolving strategy to future-proof their centre-back department.
The academy graduate left Anfield in the summer of 2025 in a deal believed to be worth around £35 million, during a major squad rebuild under new head coach Arne Slot. While the sale came as a surprise to some supporters, Liverpool were careful to safeguard their interests by negotiating a buy-back clause into the agreement.
That option, which is expected to become available in 2027, would allow Liverpool to bring Quansah back for a pre-set fee if they decide the timing is right.
Why Liverpool Are Monitoring Quansah’s Situation
The renewed attention on Quansah is closely linked to uncertainty within Liverpool’s current defensive group.
Ibrahima Konaté is edging toward the final phase of his contract, and without a new deal, the club risks losing him for nothing. Meanwhile, Virgil van Dijk is entering the latter stages of his career, naturally raising questions about rotation, workload, and long-term succession.
Liverpool have already taken a step toward addressing the future by signing Jérémy Jacquet from Stade Rennais, but internal discussions reportedly suggest the club may want another centre-back who already understands Premier League demands and the culture at Anfield.
Quansah’s Growth at Bayer Leverkusen
Since moving to Germany, Quansah has continued to develop steadily, becoming an important figure for Leverkusen across domestic and European competitions.
His calmness on the ball, strength in the air, and improved defensive reading have caught the attention of Liverpool’s recruitment team, who are said to be keeping close tabs on his progress.
That rise hasn’t gone unnoticed on the international stage either. The 23-year-old earned his senior England debut last year, starting in a 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Albania, a moment that highlighted how far he has come since leaving Merseyside.
A Smart Option for the Future?
With Konaté’s future unresolved, Van Dijk moving into a veteran role, and elite centre-backs becoming increasingly difficult to secure, the chance to re-acquire a fully developed academy product remains an appealing option for Liverpool.
Whether the club decide to activate the clause in the coming years remains to be seen—but the door for a dramatic Anfield return is very much open 🔴✨