3 days ago
32
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Chris Kirkland believes that Arne Slot should be prioritizing signing a central defensive player, insinuating that the Reds should sign one as well as Alexander Isak.
Liverpool's defensive issues have become a concern throughout the club's preseason campaign, signing two attack-minded wing-backs while having just three center-backs on the team. One of those players, Joe Gomez, has struggled with injuries throughout his career and currently remains sidelined.
The Reds' attacking full-backs often force defensive midfielders to cover the flanks and the central defense, with Wataru Endo, a role player, the only star who truly plays the position. Ryan Gravenberch was deployed there last season.
And while some will argue that defensive midfield is also a position of need, Kirkland believes the biggest priority, over a striker, is the central defensive positions.
Speaking on BBC Sport Live, Kirkland said: "We want Isak, we have bid for him, and he wants to come to us. Normally, when that is the case, a deal gets done.
"But I want a center-back and a forward because we are all greedy in this world!”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk struggled in the game and was arguably at fault for both goals, giving away a penalty and being pulled out of position for the second.
Now 34 years old, Van Dijk is still capable of elite performances, being among the best players in the league last season. However, asking him to play as much as he did last season will not be seen as optimal.
His defensive partner, Ibrahima Konate, also has his future shrouded in mystery. He goes into the last year of his contract with Real Madrid's interest hardly being a secret.
Despite some concerns about the team's defensive frailties, Slot stated that he's happy with the depth he has at center-back.
He told reporters last week: "Joe Gomez only has a minor injury. He's been good for us last season as well. We have enough options left but it's true that Jarell Quansah left and we haven't replaced him."
Despite Slot's words, Liverpool has been strongly linked with Crystal Palace center-back Marc Guehi, who the Reds boss was seen shaking hands with prior to their game on Sunday.
Guehi is going into the last year of his contract, and is said to be available for around $50 million - a deal that would be seen much below his market value.
Liverpool.com says: If Liverpool's interest in Marc Guehi is genuine, then the Reds should not wait around. Guehi is the perfect option to add at a clear position of need, fitting the mould of a player that the club wants to bring in. Young, ascending English talents like Guehi at a cut-price deal... what's to consider?
While defensive midfield may also be an area to improve upon, the likes of Dominik Szobozslai and Curtis Jones could be deployed deeper this year, alongside Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Wataru Endo, and even the emerging Trey Nyoni.
Should that be the case, Harvey Elliott may still have a role to play with Liverpool, as the back-up attacking midfield option behind Florian Wirtz.
English (US) ·