برچسب: Zeno

  • Liverpool lining up move for Zeno Debast

    Liverpool lining up move for Zeno Debast

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    Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a move for Sporting CP defender Zeno Debast as an alternative to Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, according to Portuguese outlet Record (page 13).

    Reds shift focus to Debast after Guehi setback

    The Merseyside giants made a strong push to sign Guehi on deadline day last month, but Crystal Palace refused to sanction a deal after failing to find a replacement in time. That missed opportunity has now forced Liverpool to reassess their defensive options ahead of the January transfer window.

    Adding to their concerns, Giovanni Leoni has suffered a serious knee injury, leaving Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez as the club’s only fit central defenders. Given Gomez’s injury history, manager Arne Slot is reportedly eager to bring in another centre-back when the market reopens.

    Debast emerging as a prime candidate

    Record reports that Liverpool have identified Zeno Debast as a potential target. The Belgian joined Sporting CP from Anderlecht in the summer of 2024 and quickly established himself as a key figure, making 48 appearances across all competitions last season—splitting time between central defence and holding midfield.

    This season, the 21-year-old has been deployed primarily as a right-sided centre-back, boasting an impressive 91% passing accuracy in the Primeira Liga while averaging five recoveries and three clearances per game.

    Liverpool are believed to have around £35 million available to spend on a new defender, which could make Debast an attainable option should Palace continue to resist offers for Guehi.

    Long-term vision at Anfield

    Debast could serve as direct competition for Konate, whose contract expires in June 2026 and who has yet to agree on new terms. The Belgian’s composure and versatility make him an attractive long-term investment for the Reds as they look to maintain defensive depth and stability.

    Whether Liverpool press ahead with a formal bid for Debast or renew their pursuit of Guehi remains to be seen, but their intent to strengthen the backline in January is clear.

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  • Arsenal join Man United in race to sign Zeno Debast

    Arsenal join Man United in race to sign Zeno Debast

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    Arsenal may have enjoyed one of their most productive transfer windows in recent years, but Mikel Arteta’s push for the Premier League title could see them return to the market in 2025. According to Caught Offside, the Gunners have identified Sporting Lisbon’s Zeno Debast as a target, with scouts monitoring the Belgian centre-back closely.

    Arsenal and Man Utd Set for Transfer Battle

    Manchester United are also keen on the 21-year-old defender, who was brought to Lisbon by Ruben Amorim. Debast has a £70 million release clause, though both Arsenal and United are expected to test Sporting’s resolve with offers closer to half that figure.

    Why Debast Fits Arsenal’s Style

    Debast’s ball progression, passing range, and dominance in the air make him a strong fit for Arteta’s system. However, Arsenal’s defensive depth is already growing. They are obliged to sign Piero Hincapie permanently from Bayer Leverkusen next summer and have already secured Cristhian Mosquera. That may push other priorities higher up the list, such as reinforcing the wings and finding reliable cover for David Raya in goal.

    United Hold an Advantage?

    United, on the other hand, have an urgent need for reinforcements at centre-back. With Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof departing, Erik ten Hag is keen to add quality depth. Debast’s ability to play in both a back four and a three-man defence makes him an attractive option. His previous relationship with Amorim could also tilt the scales in United’s favour.

    Aston Villa Lurking, But Unlikely

    Aston Villa are also admirers of Debast, but given his hefty price tag, it seems more likely that his future lies with one of the Premier League’s elite sides.

    If Sporting are willing to negotiate, the coming months could see a fascinating transfer battle between Arsenal and Manchester United for one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.

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  • Man Utd lining up move for Zeno Debast

    Man Utd lining up move for Zeno Debast

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    Manchester United are ramping up their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon star Zeno Debast, with scouts keeping a close eye on the Belgian defender as the January transfer window approaches, according to Caught Offside.

    United Shift Focus to Defence

    After a summer heavily focused on attacking reinforcements — with Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko all arriving at Old Trafford — the Red Devils are now turning their attention to tightening up the backline.

    Reports suggest United are preparing a potential £35 million bid for Debast. However, that figure is well below the 21-year-old’s £69 million release clause. Sporting could be open to negotiations, especially given a 15% sell-on clause owed to Debast’s former club Anderlecht.

    Why Debast Fits the Bill

    Debast joined Sporting from Anderlecht in the summer of 2024 and wasted no time making an impact in Portugal. Initially deployed as a central defender under Ruben Amorim, he was later shifted into a defensive midfield role when Amorim adjusted his tactical setup.

    The Belgian impressed in both positions, completing 90% of his passes, averaging over four recoveries per game, and even chipping in with goal contributions. His versatility and composure on the ball have quickly elevated him into a key figure for both club and country, with new Belgium boss Rudi Garcia handing him a regular starting role.

    A Tempting Reunion with Amorim?

    With Amorim now at the helm at Old Trafford, a reunion could prove enticing for Debast. The Portuguese champions will not be easy to negotiate with, given the defender’s contract runs until June 2029, but United’s growing defensive concerns could push them to test Sporting’s resolve.

    If United move swiftly in January, they may just secure one of Europe’s most promising young defenders before his stock rises further — especially with the World Cup on the horizon, where Debast could shine on the biggest stage.

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