While the midfield rebuild has dominated discussions around Liverpool’s summer transfer business so far, the lack of defensive reinforcements is a major cause for concern.
With next week’s transfer deadline looming large, it’s fair to say that Liverpool still have some significant work to do if this window is to be considered an overall success.
Despite the surprise signing of Wataru Endo from Stuttgart last week, there remains an obvious need for one more high calibre midfielder, ideally of a younger age – whether it be a specialist number six or a more versatile, multi-functional type.
It remains to be seen whether Liverpool make a move for one of the perpetually linked targets such as Cheick Doucoure, Ryan Gravenberch, Khephren Thuram or Manu Kone, or perhaps another name that emerges totally out of the blue.
But it does seem as though Liverpool are at least still considering their options in this regard.
By complete contrast, there is no indication, at present, that Liverpool are actively pursuing a centre-back signing.
Given the notable absence of credible links to defenders throughout the window, other than the brief suggestions of interest in Levi Colwill – a deal that never seemed remotely on the cards – it seems increasingly likely that Liverpool will be pressing ahead with their existing defensive options.
If that remains the case, it’s an enormous risk to take, leaving Liverpool dangerously reliant on the availability of Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, which is by no means guaranteed.
