Key Takeaways:
- Liverpool are reportedly considering Napoli centre-back Sam Beukema as a potential signing, with Arne Slot listing him as a top target
- Slot previously attempted to bring Beukema to Feyenoord and has now recommended the Dutch defender to Liverpool’s recruitment team
- Beukema joined Napoli from Bologna for €31m last summer and made 30 appearances across all competitions this season
Liverpool Eye Beukema to Strengthen Defensive Ranks
Liverpool are reportedly preparing to pursue Sam Beukema from Napoli to reinforce their defensive options during the upcoming summer transfer window, as detailed by TEAMTalk. The Dutch centre-back is said to be highly esteemed by Arne Slot – a compatriot and manager expected to remain at Anfield through the 2026-27 campaign. Slot previously expressed interest in acquiring Beukema while at Feyenoord, during the player’s earlier tenure at Go Ahead Eagles.
🚨 Even though they are closing in on a new contract for Ibrahima Konaté, Liverpool are still considering a move for Napoli centre-back Sam Beukema.
(Source: @TEAMtalk) pic.twitter.com/sSX9WbRSwa
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) April 29, 2026
Slot’s Influence on Recruitment Strategy
According to the report, Arne Slot has conveyed his strong admiration for Beukema to Liverpool’s recruitment department and sporting director Richard Hughes. With a focus on shoring up their defensive line in the near future, Liverpool are understood to have added Beukema, aged 27, to their shortlist of possible summer recruits.
Recent Defensive Transfers and Updates
The Merseyside club brought in Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma last summer. However, Leoni endured a setback, suffering an ACL injury during his Anfield debut. Slot has since provided a positive update on Leoni’s progress, noting that the former Parma player is “becoming a beast” during his recovery process.
Beukema’s Career Trajectory and Statistics
| Player | Age | Current Club | Joined From | Transfer Fee (€) | 2025-26 Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sam Beukema | 27 | Napoli | Bologna | 31,000,000 | 30 |
Beukema moved to Napoli from Bologna for a fee of €31m last summer, featuring in 30 matches across all competitions during the season.
