£85m star, Man United target - 5 Leny Yoro transfer alternatives Liverpool could sign

Liverpool are in the market for a new centre-back but it remains to be seen which player could move to Anfield.

The Reds will bid farewell to Joel Matip this summer when the defender's contract expires at the end of the month. As a result, rumours have been swirling for several weeks that Liverpool could look to strengthen their squad in the transfer market.

Lille centre-back Leny Yoro has emerged as a target this summer. The Reds hold an interest in signing the centre-back, but there is a sense that a deal may not happen due to the player's desire to move to Real Madrid.

Even though Liverpool are showing an interest in signing Yoro, there is every chance the Reds may be forced to look at alternate targets. But what other centre-backs have been linked with a move to Anfield during the summer transfer window?

READ MORE: Jordan Henderson was a troublemaker and my relationship with Jurgen Klopp changed at Liverpool

READ MORE: Liverpool could revisit interest in 84-goal forward after Diogo Jota decision

The ECHO takes a look at other central defenders that could be targets for Liverpool this summer.

Waldemar Anton

Liverpool have been linked with Stuttgart defender Waldemar Anton in recent days. The Reds are reportedly keeping an eye on the centre-back with a view to making a move this summer.

Anton is part of the Germany squad that is starring at Euro 2024 this summer. He was an unused substitute in the 5-1 win over Scotland in the tournament's opening fixture.

Dean Huijsen

Juventus defender Dean Huijsen has been credited in some reports as a potential target for Liverpool. The 19-year-old centre-back has been tipped for a bright future after enjoying a loan spell at Roma last season.

Liverpool will reportedly face competition from Newcastle for Huijsen's signature. Reports in Italy have stressed that Juventus do not want the defender to leave the club this summer.

Ousmane Diomande

Reports in recent months have linked Liverpool with Sporting Lisbon defender Ousmane Diomande. Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the centre-back in recent months.

The rumours first emerged that Liverpool could move to sign Diomande after Ruben Amorim was linked with the manager's job at Anfield. Since Arne Slot was confirmed as head coach, rumours linking Diomane with the Reds have quietened down, but there is still speculation a deal could happen.

Goncalo Inacio

Sporting Lisbon defender Goncalo Inacio is another defender to be linked with Liverpool. Reports have suggested Inacio has a €60 million (£51 million) release clause in his contract with the Portuguese club.

Man United have also been mentioned in some reports as showing an interest in signing Inacio. It remains uncertain where the centre-back will be playing his football next season amid continued interest in his signature.

Antonio Silva

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Benfica star Antonio Silva at various times over the last 12 months. The 20-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most talented young centre-backs in Europe.

Reports have suggested that Benfica would demand a fee worth €100 million (£85 million) to allow Silva to leave the club. If Liverpool are to complete a deal for Silva it appears it would take up a sizable portion of their transfer budget this summer.