Report: Liverpool tracking Ligue 1 defender

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13 hours ago

Liverpool Eye Charlie Cresswell as Long-Term Defensive Prospect
Liverpool's recruitment team are reportedly keeping tabs on Toulouse defender Charlie Cresswell, according to a recent GiveMeSport report. The 22-year-old centre-back, who moved to Ligue 1 from Leeds United last summer, has emerged as a player of real interest for Arne Slot's Anfield project.
Though there is no official bid or move at this stage, GMS state that 'Cresswell is very much a player Liverpool like, and one who remains under consideration as they assess future defensive options.' At 6 ft 3, with an aggressive aerial presence and composed play from the back, Cresswell has developed significantly during his time in France. His performances have not gone unnoticed.
Profile Fits Liverpool's Emerging Blueprint
Cresswell's profile aligns with what Liverpool appear to be targeting this summer and beyond: youth, potential, and experience in more than one top league. With Virgil van Dijk now 34, long-term succession planning has become unavoidable. While Ibrahima Konaté remains a key figure, the need for a fourth or even fifth centre-back option, particularly one who can evolve into a regular starter, is pressing.
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The young defender, who impressed for England under-21s this summer, continues to grow in stature. GMS highlight that 'Charlie Cresswell won 10 duels and made nine clearances during the England under-21 side's victory over Germany in the European Championships final last month' – a performance that showcased his readiness for bigger stages.
Tactical and Technical Maturity on the Rise
Cresswell's year in Ligue 1 has done more than refine his defensive instincts. His passing range has improved, and there's a greater sense of control in his game. Sources told GMS that Slot's staff have scouted the player on multiple occasions, suggesting a long-standing interest rather than a reactionary one. While Toulouse have yet to comment publicly, it's clear Liverpool's interest has not faded.
Crucially, this is not about immediate transformation, but steady reinforcement. Cresswell would not be expected to walk into the starting XI. Instead, his development would likely continue under Slot's guidance, with opportunities to learn alongside Van Dijk and Konaté in a high-press, high-responsibility system.
Cresswell's Career Trajectory Being Carefully Watched
At just 22, and with both Premier League and continental experience under his belt, Cresswell is in a strong position. Liverpool have built a reputation for identifying and cultivating long-term solutions. The manner in which they are tracking the defender speaks volumes.
As GIVEMESPORT report, 'it remains a case of watching,' but the fact he remains in their conversation highlights his rising stock. He may not be the headline arrival, but he might just be the next long-term cornerstone.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter's perspective, this is precisely the type of rumour that flies under the radar until it suddenly becomes very real. Charlie Cresswell might not carry the glamour of a marquee name, but his profile is tailor-made for the club's evolving defensive blueprint.
Cresswell is young, physically dominant, and importantly, has tasted both the intensity of English football and the technical demands of Ligue 1. His performance against Germany's under-21s was a statement – not just of potential, but readiness. That kind of blend is rare and increasingly valuable.
Arne Slot will want centre-backs who are aggressive in the press, comfortable pushing high, and brave on the ball. Cresswell ticks those boxes. And while there's no need to rush, having him training alongside Van Dijk and Konaté for a season could fast-track his development immensely.
What stands out here is the nature of the interest: long-term, deliberate, and persistent. That's often a good sign. If Cresswell does make the switch, it would reflect Liverpool's strategy under Slot – focused, forward-thinking, and not afraid to trust youth with responsibility.