Liverpool's defensive solidity, a hallmark of their recent success, has shown worrying cracks this season. The usually imperious pairing of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté has looked uncharacteristically vulnerable, failing to consistently meet the high standards they've set in previous campaigns.

This dip in form has contributed to a leakier backline, with opponents finding it easier to breach the Reds' defence. While injuries to key squad players like Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley have undoubtedly been a factor, the core issue appears to be a lack of stability and confidence at the heart of the defence.

With the summer transfer window approaching, speculation is mounting about potential reinforcements. The club has already secured the signing of young defender Jeremy Jacquet, but the need for a proven, top-tier centre-back remains a priority, especially if contract situations remain unresolved.

All eyes are on Ibrahima Konaté's future. According to reports from talkSPORT, Liverpool's new sporting director, Richard Hughes, has a clear contingency plan should the French international decide against signing a new contract. The potential target? Bournemouth's Argentine defender Marcos Senesi, a player Hughes knows well from his time at the Cherries.

The report suggests that while no formal contact has been made, Senesi is a player admired by the Liverpool hierarchy. His potential arrival at Anfield is directly linked to Konaté's decision. If the current stalwart departs, Hughes may move swiftly to bring in a Premier League-proven replacement he trusts, signaling a new strategic direction for the club's defence.