Report: Liverpool set sights on free agent deemed one of the best young defensive talents around

Liverpool have been quiet on the transfer front this summer, with no new signings over the line just yet.

With Arne Slot having recently taken over from Jurgen Klopp at Anfield, he is said to be keen on assessing his squad before moving in the market.

The transfer window isn’t just about bringing in first-team ready players, however. A top club must always be on the ball when it comes to academy talents.

Liverpool’s academy setup has produced some top talents in recent years, and their scouting setup is bound to always be on the lookout for new recruits.

Now, according to a report from France, the Reds have reportedly set their sights on a 17-year-old gem said to be one of the best young defensive talents around.

READ MORE: Official update on £44m Liverpool deal as off-pitch statement issued

Liverpool set sights on Mathys Engely

The player in question is defender Mathys Engely, who was most recently contracted to Bordeaux.

With the French club having filed for bankruptcy, all players from the first team and academy are set to be released for their contracts.

According to Foot Mercato, Engely is probably the ‘most sought-after’ out of all of Bordeaux’s players, and ‘was followed by Liverpool and French clubs’.

The report also explains what makes the youngster so sought after in the current market.

They explain how Engely – who can play at centre-back and as a defensive midfielder – ‘wowed everyone during the last Euro U17’ and ‘is one of the best players in his category’.

‘He impresses with his serenity on the ball and his technical ease. And of course, clubs are fighting over him,’ they added.

Liverpool owners FSG were in talks to take over Bordeaux

Liverpool owners Fenway Sports Group were in discussions to take over Bordeaux, but talks fell through.

As per Goal.com, a statement from the club said: “While discussions had resumed in recent days, FSG representatives indicated yesterday Monday July 22 to FC Girondins de Bordeaux and its shareholder their desire not to follow through despite the assurances provided by various stakeholders.

“Therefore, in the absence of new elements, FC Girondins de Bordeaux withdrew the appeal lodged against the decision of the DNCG dated July 9, 2024. As a result, FC Girondins de Bordeaux accepts the sanction of administrative demotion within the National 1 Championship for the 2024/2025 season and will be summoned again to present its budget to the DNCG.”