Key Points
- Liverpool suffer setback in centre-back recruitment after key target Charlie Cresswell signs new contract with Toulouse.
- Toulouse confirm official announcement of Cresswell’s extended deal, blocking summer 2026 move.
- Liverpool face ongoing defensive needs with Virgil van Dijk ageing, Ibrahima Konate’s contract expiring and Joe Gomez’s injury issues.
- Interest in Cresswell came from multiple clubs including Tottenham, West Ham and Chelsea.
Liverpool (Liverpool Standard) February 14, 2026 – Liverpool have been handed a significant blow in their pursuit of a new centre-back after Toulouse confirmed Charlie Cresswell has signed a new contract.
The 23-year-old English defender, previously with Leeds United, emerged as a prime target for the Premier League champions amid concerns over their defensive depth. Cresswell’s decision to extend his stay in France ends Liverpool’s hopes of a reported £26 million summer move.
What caused Liverpool’s centre-back transfer blow?
According to Teamtalk, Liverpool planned a bid exceeding €30 million for Cresswell, seen as a potential solution to backline vulnerabilities. Sports Boom reported the interest persisted despite competition from Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham, Chelsea and Brighton and Hove Albion.
Crystal Palace, Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg also eyed the defender, but Toulouse opted to secure his services long-term through an official announcement. This development leaves Liverpool’s owners, Fenway Sports Group, reflecting on a missed opportunity from his Leeds days.
Why do Liverpool need defensive reinforcements?
Virgil van Dijk turns 34 soon, while Ibrahima Konate’s contract expires in summer 2026 with ongoing talks unresolved, as noted by Anfield Watch and Rousing the Kop. Joe Gomez’s injury proneness further exposes gaps despite recent signing Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes.
How urgent is Konate’s contract situation?
Anfield Watch highlights Konate’s improving form and £160,000 weekly wage demands, urging swift resolution to avoid a free exit. Rousing the Kop details his low current £70,000-a-week pay, the lowest among seniors bar Curtis Jones.
What are Liverpool’s next steps in the transfer market?
With Giovanni Leoni’s injury recovery targeted for 2026/27, Liverpool may pivot to alternatives like Tottenham’s Micky van de Ven, per transfer insider Dean Jones via Teamtalk. Defensive midfield bolstering remains a priority too, as Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle suggests a major number six arrival.
Empire of the Kop reports Arne Slot’s squad strains from injuries, prompting careful summer planning around outgoing players and budget constraints.
