By OkayGoal
Liverpool have registered their interest in Real Sociedad’s highly rated Venezuelan right-back Jon Aramburu, according to TEAMtalk, as Arne Slot weighs up reinforcements for his defensive ranks.
Right-Back Options Under Scrutiny
With Conor Bradley still working his way back from a lengthy injury lay-off, Jeremie Frimpong has been shouldering the bulk of the right-back duties at Anfield this season. The Dutchman’s form, however, has been patchy, prompting suggestions that the Reds could look elsewhere to strengthen that area of the pitch. A dependable, combative option capable of matching the physicality Slot demands from his full-backs appears to be firmly on the club’s radar.
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TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool have been closely tracking the 24-year-old for some time, with his versatility and defensive reliability among the standout qualities that have caught the club’s eye. Aramburu still has four years remaining on his current deal at the Reale Arena, and Sociedad have reportedly slapped a £50million release clause on their prized asset. Liverpool are far from alone in the chase, though, with Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur, Newcastle United, Everton and Fulham all credited with interest in the defender.
Impressive Numbers In LaLiga
Aramburu’s underlying statistics in LaLiga this term go some way to explaining the growing interest. He has started all seven league fixtures, completing 86.2% of his passes while contributing 7.7% successful crosses per 90 minutes from his forward bursts. His dribbling success rate of 66.7% underlines his comfort carrying the ball forward, while defensively he has won 53.4% of ground duels and a striking 63.4% of aerial duels despite standing just 5ft 9in.
South American football journalist Nathan Joyes labelled him “phenomenal” — and on this evidence, it’s hard to disagree. For a Liverpool side searching for greater balance at full-back, Aramburu looks a shrewd, forward-thinking target, though fending off six suitors for a player of his calibre will be no small task.