If a report from Turkish outlet Aslinda is believed to be true, Liverpool have been monitoring Yasin Ozcan for a long time. The Kasimpasa prospect is already a regular in the defensive third and according to head coach Sami Ugurlu, clubs from home and abroad are keeping close tabs on their prized asset.
“It would be abnormal if Yasin did not receive an offer. There are serious offers for Yasin from home and abroad. There are clubs following Yasin. I cannot name the club right now.”
Ugurlu told Ajansspor in January that fueled speculations on the 18-year-old’s future.
Ozcan progressed through Apaches’ academy ranks before breaking into their senior side at 16. He eventually secured a first-team status and appeared 40 times last season across club competitions. The Guardian named him as one of the best 2006-born players worldwide and his emergence has caught the eyes of top European outfits including the Premier League hotshots.
Why Liverpool Should Pursue This Transfer
Predominantly a centre-back, Ozcan excelled as a left fullback during the 2023-24 campaign. A regular for Turkey U21s, the teenager is way ahead of his compatriots from a similar age group. He is strong in the air and has exhibited physical supremacy while holding the ball and winning duels.
Liverpool’s new era under Arne Slot needs some reinforcements. They parted ways with Joel Matip upon the expiration of his Anfield contract, but the rise of Jarell Quansah restored parity in the defensive third. The young Englishman has shown enough quality to cement a starting status alongside Virgil van Dijk, also, the presence of Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez has offered depth and diversity in deep defence.
Yet the Reds must step up the chase for Ozcan to bolster themselves in the long run. Despite having his moments, Konate struggled for form and fitness towards the closure of the previous season. Gomez has been utilized across the backline, however, his lack of consistency as a centre-half does not make him an obvious starter.
Liverpool had a few defenders out on loan, but they are unlikely to be reintegrated into the senior setup for different reasons. Nat Phillips, 27, should seek a permanent exit after years of temporary switches, whereas an explosive interview has further jeopardized Sepp van den Berg’s Anfield future irrespective of a promising spell at Mainz. Young duo Rhys Williams and Billy Koumetio could be transfer-listed after failed loans and Slot, therefore, would prefer a player of Ozcan’s potential over average academy options.
