2 weeks ago
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Former Liverpool goalkeeper David James has suggested that there's no need for the Reds to dash out and sign a new defender this summer, as he believes Arne Slot can rely on his offensive prowess to outscore rivals for the time being.
Liverpool has already splashed out in excess of $260 million (£200m) during the transfer window, securing talents such as Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz, with links to Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi continuing.
Now, the Reds are eyeing Alexander Isak, with the prolific Swedish striker reportedly keen on an exit from Newcastle, and Anfield is tipped as his preferred landing spot, which would add even more firepower to a squad that boasts Mohamed Salah among its ranks.
After sanctioning Jarell Quansah's exit and the ongoing speculation about Ibrahima Konate's future, with rumors of a move to Real Madrid next year when his contract ends, Liverpool has shown interest in Crystal Palace captain Guehi.
However, James is confident that Liverpool's defence will stand firm, especially in the early season, as the team won't face its sternest challenges until the latter stages of the Champions League, providing ample opportunity to bring in defensive reinforcements if necessary.
He commented: "You'd think their offence will always be better than the opposition's defence and they will be able to out-score other teams except for the occasional game.
"The idea Liverpool has to have the best defence would be wonderful, but I don't think Slot has to rush into buying someone. It might be something that happens in January.
"The end of the Champions League campaign is naturally when you come up against better teams and your defensive issues can be called into question.
"I imagine Liverpool will have so much success anyway they won't feel they have to desperately go out and buy someone and looking at the signings there doesn't appear to be any desperation so far."
Guehi has just captained the Eagles to the FA Cup but doesn't have plans to extend his deal at Selhurst Park, which expires in a year. He hasn't ruled out the possibility of running down his contract which would make him a free agent next summer.
Virgil van Dijk remains the team's defensive leader and he recently signed a new deal. Joe Gomez, who has been hampered by fitness issues for years, has just left the team's pre-season camp with an injury problem.
Liverpool will step up its pre-season preparations on Wednesday when Slot's men face off against Japanese outfit Yokohama FM. The encounter is likely to give Liverpool fans their first glimpse of new recruit Ekitike.
Focus will then shift to the double-header against Athletic Bilbao on Monday August 4 before the Community Shield against Palace and Guehi at Wembley before the Premier League season begins.
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