Arsenal and Liverpool could be heading towards a direct transfer battle as both clubs search for greater depth on the right side of defence.The two Premier League rivals have different immediate needs, but they appear to agree on the value of signing a defender who can comfortably operate in several positions.For Arsenal, the move would provide more competition and protection during another demanding season across domestic and European competitions.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYLiverpool, meanwhile, are beginning a new era under Andoni Iraola and need players capable of adapting to different tactical structures.At a reported price of around €25m, this could become one of the more affordable deals available to England’s leading clubs.Arsenal are looking to get flexible defensive upgradeSources close to the agents industry have informed CaughtOffside that Arsenal have placed Lutsharel Geertruida on their shortlist for the right-back position, with the club’s board attracted by his versatility and experience.Liverpool are also said to be monitoring the Dutch international as Iraola looks for a modern full-back who can contribute in possession and provide defensive flexibility.Want more CaughtOffside coverage? Add us as a preferred source on Google to your favourites list for news you can trustLiverpool’s interest has been mentioned elsewhere, with Football365 reporting in June that the Reds were “very keen” on the RB Leipzig defender after his representatives held discussions with club officials.However, no official bid has yet been confirmed.More Stories / Latest NewsSources: Arsenal want versatile right-back but Iraola interest poses major threatJul 10 2026, 8:26Tottenham continue to monitor €50m winger on Andoni Iraola radar at LiverpoolJul 10 2026, 8:15Arsenal and Liverpool ready to accept loan-back compromise in midfielder raceJul 10 2026, 6:53€25m deal could appeal to the GunnersGeertruida spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Sunderland, giving him valuable experience of the Premier League’s intensity.His ability to play at right-back, centre-back and defensive midfield is highlighted by Bundesliga.com, which also notes that he made 35 appearances for Leipzig during the 2024/25 season.Arsenal should seriously consider this opportunity. Geertruida would not necessarily arrive as an automatic starter, but his versatility could make him extremely useful during a long campaign.The price also looks reasonable compared with the inflated fees being demanded elsewhere. Arsenal need reliable squad options who can maintain the team’s level when injuries or rotation become necessary.However, Liverpool could offer him a clearer route to regular football.Transfer finalised: Arsenal close to their first heavy investment of summer windowThe post Sources: Arsenal want versatile right-back but Iraola interest poses major threat appeared first on CaughtOffside.