Liverpool plot 2027 right-back overhaul with Kalulu and Wesley on shortlist

Liverpool have shortlisted Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu and AS Roma full-back Wesley Franca as potential right-back reinforcements for 2027, according to Tuttomercatoweb. The Reds are already planning for the future as their current right-back options struggle for consistency under manager Andoni Iraola.

  • Targets: Pierre Kalulu (Juventus) and Wesley Franca (AS Roma)
  • Reported by: Tuttomercatoweb
  • Timeline: 2027
  • Valuations: Kalulu £26m, Wesley £33m (Transfermarkt)
  • Reason: Liverpool lack a reliable starting right-back this season
  • Current options: Conor Bradley (injured), Jeremie Frimpong (poor form), Ronald Araujo (centre-back by trade)

Why Liverpool are looking at right-backs for 2027

Liverpool's right-back position has come under scrutiny since the start of the season, not for a lack of personnel, but for a lack of a reliable starter. Conor Bradley remains sidelined due to a lengthy injury suffered last campaign, while Jeremie Frimpong has failed to impress since arriving from Bayer Leverkusen.

The Dutchman arrived with high hopes, and expectations were that he would replicate the immense attacking output Trent Alexander-Arnold showed before leaving for Real Madrid. However, 41 games later, he has only produced four goal contributions and has been found wanting for defensive lapses, like in the 2-2 draw against Nottingham Forest and most recently in the 3-0 defeat against Manchester City, where Rayan Cherki cut past his sliding attempt to net City's third goal.

His unreliability has prompted Andoni Iraola to deploy Dominik Szoboszlai at right-back in-game against Forest and to use Ronald Araujo there in the last three Premier League games. Still, despite impressing, the Uruguayan is more suited to a centre-back role, leading the club to assess other potential natural options.

Deal details

According to Tuttomercatoweb, Juventus' Kalulu and Roma's Wesley have been shortlisted as possible right-back options ahead of 2027. No formal bid has been made, and both moves remain at the rumour stage. However, the report suggests that Liverpool are actively monitoring the situations.

For Kalulu, valued at £26m by Transfermarkt, the report adds that his ability to play in different positions, technicality and athleticism have placed him high on Liverpool's radar ahead of a possible move. While Juventus are looking to reward the France international with a bumper contract beyond 2029, negotiations could be disrupted should the Reds make formal contact to sign him, according to the report.

On the other hand, the Merseyside giants have also placed Wesley, valued at £33m by Transfermarkt, on their shortlist, with the report adding that the club have been closely watching his performances for Roma in recent games.

Kalulu vs Wesley: Who fits Liverpool's needs?

Kalulu and Wesley may have different characteristics, but one constant in their games is their reliability and ability to maintain a high level of performance across matches. Kalulu is more defensively adept, while Wesley has superior attacking quality and can also hold his own defensively.

Given Kalulu is a natural centre-back like Araujo, Wesley would be the better option for Andoni Iraola's side, as he offers a more specialised, natural right-back option who can defend and attack. The 2027 timeline suggests Liverpool are planning a long-term solution rather than a quick fix, and Wesley's profile aligns with the modern full-back role that Iraola favours.

What happens next

Liverpool will continue to monitor both Kalulu and Wesley, with the club likely to make a decision closer to 2027. Juventus are keen to tie Kalulu down to a new contract, which could complicate any move, while Wesley's performances for Roma will be watched closely. The Reds' next transfer window activity will reveal how serious their interest is.

Frequently asked questions

Who are Liverpool targeting at right-back?

Liverpool have shortlisted Juventus's Pierre Kalulu and AS Roma's Wesley Franca as right-back targets for 2027, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

Why do Liverpool need a new right-back?

Conor Bradley is sidelined with a lengthy injury and Jeremie Frimpong has struggled for form, producing only four goal contributions in 41 games, leading to makeshift options like Dominik Szoboszlai and Ronald Araujo filling in.

How much would Kalulu and Wesley cost?

Transfermarkt values Kalulu at £26m and Wesley at £33m, though no official fees have been reported.

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