‘As for the future…’ – Liverpool player makes ‘next step’ claim amid reported transfer contact

Jarell Quansah has hinted that he’s preparing for a pivotal moment in his career, suggesting he is now ready to “take the next step” as speculation swirls around his Liverpool future. The young defender’s comments come amid strong interest from German champions Bayer Leverkusen, who are reportedly keen on securing his services during the summer transfer window.

Speaking ahead of England’s U21 European Championship clash against Slovenia, Quansah reflected on his rapid rise through the ranks and how the journey has prepared him for what comes next. His words, delivered with poise and maturity, may not directly confirm a move away from Anfield—but they certainly open the door.

“It’s definitely developing,” Quansah said via The Athletic. “I’m not getting too high or too low with anything. From Bristol Rovers to now, I think I’ve learned a lot. I’m in a very good position to take the next step. It comes with working hard and staying focused on what I can control.”

While Quansah’s statement can be interpreted as a natural part of a young footballer’s development, in the current context at Liverpool, it feels more significant. The Reds are facing a summer of substantial defensive upheaval, and Quansah’s comments come at a time when uncertainty looms over several members of Arne Slot’s backline.

Veteran left-back Andy Robertson is reportedly exploring a move to La Liga giants Atletico Madrid. According to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, “initial talks” have taken place between the Spaniards and the Scotsman, who has served Liverpool with distinction since his arrival in 2017.

But Robertson isn’t alone in potentially heading for the exit. Ibrahima Konaté is another player whose future remains unclear. Contract talks have reportedly stalled, and Graeme Bailey has warned that Liverpool could cash in on the Frenchman rather than risk losing him for nothing in 2026.

In this context, Bayer Leverkusen’s reported contact for Quansah becomes all the more interesting. The 22-year-old centre-back is admired for his composure, positional awareness, and leadership qualities—traits that fit perfectly into Xabi Alonso’s tactical setup in Germany.

Quansah had come close to making England’s final squad for Euro 2024 just last year, but his game time at Anfield took a hit when Konaté regained his starting role. While the youngster remained patient and professional, the lack of regular starts may now be influencing his thinking.

What Liverpool must weigh is whether they can afford to let another defender go. Just two years ago, the club underwent a drastic midfield overhaul, parting ways with stalwarts like Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, and James Milner. This summer, a similar transformation may be unfolding in defence.

Trent Alexander-Arnold’s high-profile move to Real Madrid has already taken a significant piece out of the club’s core defensive structure. If Robertson departs and Konaté follows suit, Liverpool could lose three of their four primary defenders from the 2024/25 season before the new campaign begins.

Virgil van Dijk, the captain and anchor of the backline, remains the only guaranteed starter who looks set to stay. Though still a commanding presence, the Dutchman can’t do it all alone—especially if the club hopes to challenge for silverware under Arne Slot’s evolving philosophy.

There is a ray of optimism, however. Jeremie Frimpong has already arrived and is expected to slot into the right-back position vacated by Alexander-Arnold. Additionally, Milos Kerkez has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield, potentially offering reinforcement on the left.

Yet, questions persist. Can Frimpong and Kerkez seamlessly adapt to the Premier League? Can Liverpool afford to lose an emerging talent like Quansah, who knows the club, the culture, and the fans? Would selling him be a short-sighted move amid the desire to build a sustainable, competitive squad?

The next few weeks are likely to shape the future of Liverpool’s defence for years to come. While fans might have expected minor adjustments this summer, the possibility of a defensive reset now feels more like a reality.

For Quansah, this could be an opportunity to secure regular minutes elsewhere, especially if Leverkusen or another top European club can offer a clear path to development and competition at the highest level. For Liverpool, it’s a delicate balancing act between maintaining stability and adapting to change.

In a season that promises transition and possibly even transformation, every personnel decision carries weight. Arne Slot, stepping into the enormous shoes left by Jürgen Klopp, must quickly determine who fits into his long-term vision—and who doesn’t.

Quansah’s readiness to take the “next step” doesn’t necessarily signal an exit, but it does demand clarity from Liverpool’s hierarchy. Is he seen as part of the future at Anfield, or merely a valuable asset that could help fund further recruitment?

Only time will tell how this plays out, but one thing is certain: Liverpool’s defensive saga is far from over this summer, and Quansah’s role in it could prove pivotal.