Lewis Steele reveals the truth behind Liverpool’s reported interest in £21m defender

Lewis Steele reveals the truth behind Liverpool’s reported interest in £21m defender

Liverpool Linked with Denzel Dumfries Amid Right Back Questions

The latest Media Matters episode from Anfield Index saw Dave Davis and Lewis Steele assess reports linking Liverpool with Denzel Dumfries. The Inter Milan right back is said to have a £21.7 million release clause, but the discussion made clear that this is far from a straightforward transfer story.

Uncertainty around Liverpool interest

Steele was quick to temper expectations when asked about the link. “I don’t really know much on this one, to be honest,” he admitted, before adding: “I’ve not heard anything to suggest it’s a goer either, really.”

That lack of concrete information from Liverpool’s side is telling. While the rumour has circulated widely, it does not appear to be backed by strong internal signals at this stage.

Age profile raises questions

One of the key sticking points is Dumfries’ profile. At 30, he does not fit Liverpool’s usual recruitment model. Steele acknowledged this directly: “It doesn’t make sense from a Liverpool perspective to sign a thirty-year-old.”

However, he also introduced an important caveat, referencing comments from Arne Slot about flexibility in recruitment: “It’s not normally our style to sign an older player, but we do break the thing sometimes.”

This suggests that while unlikely, the move cannot be completely ruled out if Liverpool see a specific need for experience.

Context of squad needs

The conversation also touched on practical considerations that could influence any decision. Steele noted uncertainty around Liverpool’s current options: “We don’t know how long Bradley’s out for either. It could be that he’s out till Christmas.”

In that context, a short term, experienced option like Dumfries could make more sense. His availability through a relatively modest release clause only adds to the intrigue, even if the overall fit remains questionable.