Liverpool’s hunt for a new center-back just got harder — and a bit more frustrating.
Nathan Zeze, one of the most promising young defenders in France, has turned down a possible move to Anfield in favor of a surprise switch to the Saudi Pro League.
The 20-year-old has signed with Neom FC, a club rising fast after winning promotion to the top flight.
Liverpool weren’t the only club interested. Aston Villa, Everton, and Bournemouth had also been tracking Zeze. But in the end, the Frenchman reportedly chose a new adventure in the Middle East.
This decision may sting a bit for the Reds, especially as defensive depth is starting to look a little thin.
Virgil van Dijk isn’t getting any younger, Ibrahima Konate’s future is unclear, and Joe Gomez still faces injury concerns. With pre-season almost done and the new campaign looming, the pressure is on.
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Why Liverpool wanted to sign Nathan Zeze?
Zeze had been gaining plenty of attention in Ligue 1 after making 35 senior appearances for Nantes. His style has drawn comparisons to William Saliba — calm on the ball, strong in duels, and composed under pressure.
At just 20, he was seen as a long-term investment for any club. Liverpool reportedly saw him as a smart signing to provide depth now, and possibly lead the defense in the future.
His versatility and composure made him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s evolving system.
But now that door is closed. Zeze joins the likes of Alexandre Lacazette and Marcin Bulka at Neom FC, who are clearly not just making up the numbers in Saudi football.
With that option off the table, Liverpool might have to go all-in on other targets like Marc Guehi — or risk seeing Wataru Endo and Andy Robertson play center-back again.
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