Liverpool lay out ‘concrete plan’ for Borussia Dortmund left-back Svensson

The summer transfer window looks set to heat up with a direct tussle between Premier League heavyweights Premier League rivals Liverpool and Arsenal for Borussia Dortmund left-back Daniel Svensson. Both clubs have identified the Sweden international as a key target, though their motivations differ. Liverpool view the 24-year-old as a long-term solution on the left flank, while Arsenal see him as a squad strengthening option who can cover multiple roles during a congested campaign.

Svensson is far from a traditional full-back. Comfortable drifting into midfield from his defensive starting position, his technical ability and energy make him an ideal fit for possession-based systems. That profile has attracted interest beyond England too, with AC Milan, Juventus and Real Madrid all linked, but the strongest moves are expected from the Premier League.

Liverpool’s urgent need for a left-sided dynamo

Liverpool’s interest is said to be more pressing. The Anfield club have drawn up what is described as a concrete plan to sign Svensson, believing he offers the progressive, dynamic edge their left side currently lacks. His experience playing in midfield for both club and country adds tactical flexibility, allowing the Reds to switch between formations without disrupting rhythm. Given the injury record of their current options, a reliable, versatile starter has become a priority.

Arsenal, by contrast, already possess strong options on the left. Their pursuit is driven by squad depth and the need to rotate across four competitions, including the Champions League. Svensson would provide an energetic alternative who can shift inside when his team has the ball, a trait Mikel Arteta values highly. However, paying close to €50m for a rotation player may be harder to justify unless a departure creates space in the squad.

Dortmund hold a strong hand

Borussia Dortmund are in a powerful negotiating position. Svensson’s move from FC Nordsjælland was made permanent in 2025, and the club have him tied down until June 2029. Previous valuations placed the defender between €35m and €45m, but with growing competition from multiple elite clubs, the overall package could edge towards €50m. Dortmund are under no pressure to sell and are known for driving hard bargains when selling young talent.

For Liverpool, the logic is clear. They need a long-term answer on the left, and Svensson’s athleticism, intelligence, and tactical versatility suit their system perfectly. Arsenal should remain interested but must be careful not to let rivalry inflate the fee beyond what makes sense for a squad player. This battle could define both clubs’ summer business, with Dortmund waiting to see who blinks first.