Liverpool already have their ideal Joe Gomez replacement lined up

However, now that Sunderland have confirmed that they won't be signing the Dutchman after his current loan deal expires, it feels like the perfect option for Liverpool to swoop in and sign him.

Not only is Geertruida just 25 years old but he's also played under Slot before which means that he aligns with the Reds' current transfer strategy.

And, much like Gomez, he's very versatile and can play anywhere across the back-line as well as in the number six.

Indeed, he wouldn't be homegrown which is another issue in itself, but, the fact that Liverpool would be able to bring in a younger version of Gomez this summer feels almost too good to be true.

How much Liverpool would have to fork out if they wanted to sign Lutsharel Geertruida

Seeing as though Geertruida has had a fairly solid campaign this term, it's hardly surprising to see that several Premier League clubs are vying for his transfer.

A recent update from TEAMtalk has outlined that Liverpool, Aston Villa, Tottenham, Leeds United and Crystal Palace have all been looking at making a move for the Dutchman this summer.

Sunderland have a buy-option in their loan deal for Geertruida which is said to be worth around £20 million.

But, since they're not going to activate it, this could mean that the defender is available for a cut-rate fee, especially if RB Leipzig don't want to keep him around.

Geertruida's situation will certainly be an interesting one when the summer transfer window finally opens, but, for Liverpool to make a move, it feels like Gomez would have to go.

And, since AC Milan have made an offer for the Englishman during almost every transfer window for the past couple of years, now that there's a replacement for him, the 2025-26 season could genuinely be the last we see of Gomez in a Liverpool shirt.