Liverpool may get second chance at signing PL-proven defender after Sky reporter’s update

The journalist outlined: ‘Lutsharel Geertruida will not stay at Sunderland beyond the summer. Sunderland will not trigger the €23m option to buy.

‘The 25 y/o will initially return to RB Leipzig, but a permanent departure is considered likely. Initial enquiries have already arrived, with interest from clubs across Europe’s top five leagues. Contract with RB valid until 2029.’

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Could Liverpool go back in for Geertruida this summer?

Plettenberg didn’t elaborate on which clubs had registered an interest in Geertruida, but if Liverpool would still be keen on bringing him in, now would seem to be the perfect opportunity to make their move amid the uncertainty over his immediate future.

The Dutchman will go back to Leipzig having proven that he can perform in the Premier League, making 26 top-flight appearances for Sunderland as they cruised towards mid-table serenity upon their return to the top tier and being praised by head coach Regis Le Bris for his display against Manchester United last weekend.

Similar to Joe Gomez, the 25-year-old is equally comfortable playing in the centre of defence or on the right (Transfermarkt), and the latter could be especially appreciated given the injury problems that Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley have had this season.

James Pearce recently called for Liverpool to sign a right-back this summer for that reason, and Plettenberg’s update would suggest that Geertruida might be available for a modest amount.

Perhaps FSG’s January interest has since diminished, but the door certainly seems to be open for an approach to Leipzig if the Merseysiders are still keen on bringing in the Netherlands defender.