Journalist confirms Liverpool want to sign defender this summer | OneFootball

Liverpool Expected to Strengthen Defence as Lewis Steele Predicts Centre Back Arrival

Liverpool’s defensive rebuild remains one of the biggest priorities before the transfer window closes, with Lewis Steele expecting the club to add another senior defender before the new Premier League season begins.

Speaking with Dave Davis on the latest Media Matters podcast for Anfield Index, the Daily Mail journalist discussed Liverpool’s current defensive options, the impact of Joe Gomez’s latest injury setback and why Andoni Iraola needs further backing before the campaign gets underway.

Although several academy defenders have impressed during pre season, Steele believes Liverpool cannot afford to rely solely on youth when the competitive fixtures begin.

Defensive Injuries Leave Liverpool Short

The discussion began with Joe Gomez, whose latest injury means he will miss the opening weeks of the Premier League season.

Speaking after Liverpool’s win over Wrexham, Iraola confirmed:

“It’s a massive injury. I always say one month, maybe less. It’s impossible to have him for the start of the Premier League season.”

Lewis Steele admitted Liverpool’s options are becoming increasingly stretched.

“Liverpool will point to the fact they’ve got four centre halves, which in any normal scenario is probably enough.”

However, he quickly explained why Gomez cannot realistically be included in that calculation.

“I don’t really count Gomez in that because I count him as maybe half because he is only there for half of the season at best normally.”

Steele also praised Gomez’ quality when available.

“He’s a top lad and he’s quite reliable when he is on the pitch, but you just can’t trust him over the course of a season.”

Lewis Steele Expects Liverpool Signing

Dave Davis asked whether Iraola’s recent comments suggested Liverpool might now rely more heavily on younger defenders.

Steele acknowledged the new head coach’s willingness to trust academy players, but made it clear that another signing remains necessary.

“They definitely want a centre half and he definitely wants one.”

He added:

“It would only be fair for him to be backed with one.”

Steele also pointed out that Iraola has yet to receive significant additions since taking charge.

“Slot was backed with four hundred and fifty million. He’s been backed with nothing so far really.”

His conclusion left little room for doubt.

“They definitely need a centre half. They can’t go into the season with what they’ve got. I think that’s blatantly obvious.”

Photo: IMAGO

Academy Talent Still Has Important Role

While advocating for a new signing, Steele was equally encouraged by the progress of Liverpool’s younger defenders.

He welcomed Iraola’s readiness to promote from within when required.

“It was quite reassuring to hear Iraola speak about the youth players and how he’s willing to use them, how he trusts them if he needs to use them.”

Steele believes that represents a notable change in approach.

“It sounds like Iraola would, if he had to, chuck in a Ndiaye or a Chambers or someone along those lines.”

He finished by highlighting why that matters.

“That’s a good thing for Liverpool, who’ve always been bringing through these young players. It sounds like Iraola’s going to bring back that tradition.”

Liverpool’s promising academy defenders have certainly enhanced their reputations during pre season, but the message from Lewis Steele during his conversation with Dave Davis was consistent throughout. Iraola needs another experienced centre back before the transfer window closes. Injuries have already exposed the lack of depth in Liverpool’s defence, and while the youngsters have shown they are capable of contributing, Steele believes further investment remains essential if Liverpool are to challenge across all competitions this season.