Liverpool Urged to Complete Double Transfer Swoop This Summer – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Urged to Sign Two Centre-Backs This Summer

Liverpool’s defence has often been the backbone of their success, especially with figures like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté at the heart of it. However, with the departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen earlier this summer, the Reds are in dire need of bolstering their defensive ranks. While many fans may feel that one new signing would suffice, the current situation calls for the acquisition of not one, but two centre-backs before the transfer window slams shut.

Urgent Need for Defensive Reinforcements

The recent departure of Quansah leaves a hole in Liverpool’s defensive depth, and with Joe Gomez struggling with injury woes, the squad is severely lacking in reliable options at the back. Despite Gomez’s cult following among Liverpool supporters, his injury record has made him an unreliable option for the new season, with many fearing that his issues will persist. Moreover, with three weeks left in the transfer window, time is running out for the club to secure the reinforcements they so desperately need.

Photo: IMAGO

As Anfield Watch has pointed out, the Reds are staring down a potential crisis if they do not address this issue swiftly. The summer transfer window presents a rare opportunity to strengthen, and failing to do so could leave the team vulnerable in the face of their Premier League and European ambitions. “The more you look at the problem, the more of a crisis it appears,” Anfield Watch states, which resonates strongly with the concerns many fans are feeling.

Potential Targets for Liverpool’s Defence

Anfield Watch highlights two main centre-back targets that are currently on Liverpool’s radar: Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace and Giovanni Leoni of Serie A club Torino. Guehi, 26, is an experienced leader and a strong, reliable defender who would bring composure to the Liverpool backline. His leadership and experience would be invaluable for a team with aspirations of competing on multiple fronts. Although Palace’s £40 million asking price is steep, the situation Liverpool find themselves in makes overpaying for such a talent understandable.

On the other hand, Leoni is seen as a project. At just 18, he has impressed with his performances in Serie A, but his limited minutes at the senior level make him a gamble. “He would be a great addition,” says Anfield Watch, but putting too much pressure on a young talent like Leoni could be risky. While his development would undoubtedly benefit from the competitive environment at Liverpool, it is important not to rush him into the first team.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Two Centre-Backs are Essential

The argument for signing both Guehi and Leoni is compelling. With Ibrahima Konaté’s injury-prone nature, securing two solid defensive options would ensure Liverpool are adequately covered, regardless of the Frenchman’s fitness. Guehi, with his Premier League experience, would provide the immediate security Liverpool need, while Leoni could develop into a world-class talent over time. Furthermore, the “homegrown” status of both players would help Liverpool with squad registration rules in future seasons.

Anfield Watch suggests that the club has the financial means to make these signings without jeopardising other targets, such as the potential acquisition of Alexander Isak. With a net spend this summer already, it’s clear that the club is in a strong position to strengthen their squad without breaking the bank.

The Clock is Ticking

With the transfer window closing in three weeks, Liverpool’s plans for the new season hinge on decisive action. The report from Anfield Watch stresses the importance of swift negotiations and securing these vital signings before the window closes. If the Reds fail to act now, they may find themselves walking into a self-inflicted disaster. As the clock ticks down, the urgency for defensive reinforcements only grows.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As a Liverpool fan, I wholeheartedly agree with the argument that two centre-backs are necessary for the club this summer. The current defensive depth is simply not enough to mount a serious challenge for both the Premier League and European glory. While Marc Guehi is undoubtedly a solid and experienced option, Giovanni Leoni’s development could add significant long-term value to the squad, provided he’s not rushed into the starting XI prematurely.

Guehi’s leadership and maturity would provide a strong foundation, allowing Konaté to focus on his development without bearing the weight of the defence alone. The addition of Leoni as a potential long-term prospect gives us hope for the future, but his role should be managed carefully.

Moreover, the situation surrounding Joe Gomez cannot be overlooked. While he remains a popular figure, his injury record makes him too unreliable to be counted on as a regular starter. The club cannot afford to enter the season with such uncertainty at the back. The signing of both Guehi and Leoni would provide the security Liverpool need for the upcoming campaign.

In conclusion, the next few weeks will be crucial for Liverpool’s summer business. Arne Slot must ensure that the club addresses these gaps in the squad and makes the necessary signings to strengthen the team for what promises to be a highly competitive season.