Scout Report – Zinho Vanheusden
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has been left frustrated in this transfer window following their failed negotiations over RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita. The uncertainty regarding Southampton centre-back Virgil Van Dijk is looming large and despite recruiting three new resources (Mohamed Salah From AS Roma, Dominic Solanke on a Bosman transfer from reigning Premier League champions Chelsea and left back Andrew Robertson from Hull City), the Reds desperately need to strengthen their back-line prior to the forthcoming season.
Klopp, however, is still hopeful of striking a deal with the Saints for their £60m rated defender Virgil Van Dijk, as the Dutchman has asked his suitors to let him leave and join the Merseysiders before transfer deadline.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are also keen to bolster their development squad and are reportedly chasing Inter Milan prodigy Zinho Vanheusden. The 18-year old Belgian ace is one of the hottest prospects of world football and the German gaffer has already contacted Internazionale in order to secure his signature. The young centre-back was snapped up from his boyhood outfit Standard Liege back in 2015 and is currently under contract until 2019.
Belgian outlet Nieuwsblad reported the news regarding Liverpool’s interest and also confirmed the discussions made by their league counterparts Southampton who are hailed for their youth set-up and scouting network. The current Belgian U-19 international (who has previously represented his nation in several youth ranks) was also scouted by Chelsea and Everton back in March during an international outing against Italy.
Vanheusden impressed Inter boss Luciano Spalletti following an imposing run of form at youth level and Spalletti has introduced him in their pre-season squad alongside the senior stars. The teenager is considered as one of their future stars and is tipped to break into the first team quite soon. But the profile of Premier League football will be too fascinating to deny and a tempting bid might test Inter’s resolve for their prized asset.
The Reds released high profile academy centre-back Tom Brewitt this summer and are eyeing a proper replacement who can serve club’s U23s. Klopp wants to build a strong reserve side who can progress through the youth ranks and eventually serve the senior squad in near future.
Vanheusden is 6ft 1in, holds a strong physical presence and is known for his vision, technique and aerial ability. The Belgian thus fits that bill and holds a bright future ahead at Anfield if the deal takes place in due course.