Journalist Reveals Liverpool have held talks with Brazilian defender | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Transfer Plans Signal Bold Post-Klopp Intent

As Liverpool fans brace for a thrilling end to the Premier League season, work is already underway behind the scenes to strengthen the squad for the Arne Slot era. With recruitment in full motion, the noise around Flamengo’s Wesley Franca, reported by Bruno Lemos, underlines the club’s renewed focus on youth and succession planning.

Defence Rebuild Gains Urgency

While attention rightly remains on securing domestic silverware, it’s clear Liverpool’s hierarchy is preparing for a defensive evolution. The arrivals of Milos Kerkez and Dean Huijsen are gaining traction, and with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s rumoured move to Real Madrid, the right-back spot now feels like a strategic priority.

“Milos Kerkez looks likely to join while the race for Dean Huijsen is getting frantic more than a month before the window even thinks about opening.”

That urgency reflects the need for energy and flexibility in a defence that’s ageing in places. While centre-back reinforcements are expected, it’s the right side of defence drawing major attention. With Alexander-Arnold reportedly bound for Spain, Liverpool are seeking his long-term successor — and Wesley could well be that player.

Wesley Talks Suggest Growing Momentum

“Liverpool have two options for their recruitment at right-back this summer. They can either go for a new, expensive starter or they can bring in a younger, more inexperienced option to battle it out with Conor Bradley.”

According to RTI Esporte, Liverpool have met with Wesley’s agents to discuss a summer move, and the club are seen as one of the frontrunners for his signature. “Liverpool meet with Wesley’s agents,” the report notes, adding that Manchester City are also monitoring the situation.

Bruno Lemos, the respected Brazilian journalist, confirmed on social media:“About Wesley. As previously anticipated, the player is being coveted by Liverpool and Manchester United. Their representatives travelled to England.”

Wesley’s agents are in the country, exploring potential Premier League fits for the Flamengo full-back. At just 21, Wesley has drawn praise from his manager Filipe Luís, who labelled him “exceptional.” His pace, stamina, and growing tactical awareness make him a strong candidate to compete with Conor Bradley — even if he’s not yet ready to command a starting berth at Anfield.

Patience Required Amid Flamengo’s Firm Stance

There is, however, a twist. Flamengo are reportedly unwilling to release Wesley before this summer’s Club World Cup, a tournament the Brazilian side value deeply. That could delay any immediate transition to Merseyside.

“However, although Flamengo are claimed to be expecting to lose Wesley in the near future, they will reportedly not allow the full-back to leave before this summer’s Club World Cup.”

Timing, then, may be the only hurdle. Yet for Liverpool, who have long succeeded by thinking two steps ahead, this feels like another smart piece of groundwork. With Conor Bradley developing rapidly and Wesley offering high-upside support, Arne Slot could be handed an adaptable, youth-fuelled defensive duo heading into next season.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This feels like a real turning of the page in how Liverpool are shaping their squad with precision. For supporters, the reported pursuit of Wesley is the kind of forward-thinking strategy we’ve craved. He’s not just a player with flair and promise; he’s someone who could become a long-term solution on the right if managed correctly.

Of course, there’s cautious optimism. Losing Trent would be an emotional gut-punch — he’s a Scouser, a Champions League winner, and the creative heartbeat of our backline. But if that’s inevitable, then planning now makes sense. Wesley being described as “exceptional” by Filipe Luís carries real weight, especially from a man who knows the European game.

The key is in how Slot integrates such talent. Can Wesley challenge Bradley and grow within the club’s high standards? If so, we’re looking at a setup that can evolve without sacrificing identity. And for a fanbase adjusting to change, that’s reassuring. Credit to Bruno Lemos for shining light on the steps being taken — because if this is what life after Klopp looks like, we’ll take it.