-Credit:2025 Chris Brunskill/Fantasista
Liverpool’s reported interest in Bologna defender Sam Beukema appears to have hit a stumbling block, as recent reports suggest the Italian club has rejected an offer from the Reds.
A report from 1000 Cuori Rossoblu claims that the Reds offer for the 26-year-old Dutch defender has been turned down. Since joining Serie A last season, the central defender has garnered widespread praise for his performances, catching the eye of several clubs.
Liverpool were linked with Beukema earlier this season, and the Dutchman expressed his admiration for the Reds, admitting he would love to join the club in the future, driven by his ambition to play in the Premier League.
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Arne Slot is familiar with the player, having previously attempted to sign him during his tenure at Feyenoord in 2021 following an impressive season at Go Ahead Eagles.
“I wanted to sign him. He had had a very good season at Go Ahead Eagles and we were looking for a central defender,” he said, voicing his appreciation for Beukema’s abilities.
Slot humorously remarked that Beukema may have made a questionable decision by moving to Bologna instead of joining Feyenoord, especially since his former club went on to win the Eredivisie title in 2023.
“I think he chose the wrong club, because Feyenoord did a lot better than AZ [Alkmaar]! ” Slot joked, “But, in the end, he made a nice transfer to Bologna, where he is also doing well. Beukema is a very good player.”
Slot has made his feelings clear about Sam Beukema -Credit:Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Beukema faced Liverpool earlier this month in the Champions League, marking his third meeting with a team managed by Slot. Following in the footsteps of former teammates Joshua Zirkzee, who moved to Manchester United, and Riccardo Calafiori, now a regular at Arsenal, Beukema also appears eager to make the leap to England.
Bologna are not keen on allowing any of their key players to leave midway through the season, meaning any potential move would likely be postponed until the summer transfer window. TEAMtalk reports that Liverpool are still closely monitoring the Dutchman, who is expected to cost around €25 million (£20.9m/$25.6m).
With players like Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate suffering with fitness issues in recent months it’s no surprise that Liverpool are looking to strengthen their central defense further.
Several top clubs are believed to be vying for Beukema’s signature, but it is Liverpool who are reportedly leading the way with the first bid.