Arne Slot downplays Liverpool’s urgency to secure a new center-back in January, suggesting that the team will focus on strengthening other positions instead. The Premier League champions faced a setback when a £35m deal for Marc Guehi fell through on transfer deadline day, leaving them with only three senior center-back options after Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending injury in September.
Liverpool has struggled defensively this season, conceding 27 goals in 18 matches and managing only four clean sheets. Ibrahima Konate, in particular, has come under scrutiny for a series of subpar performances, with speculation surrounding his future at Anfield as his contract nears expiration next summer.
The futures of Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk also face uncertainties. Despite these challenges, Slot believes that reinforcing the center-back position in January is not a priority. He hinted that the club may look to bolster other areas, potentially eyeing a move for Antoine Semenyo amidst ongoing transfer speculations.
Slot emphasized that discussions about signings and the winter transfer window are premature, with a focus on upcoming matches rather than recruitment. With three current center-back options, including Joe Gomez, and versatile players like Ryan Gravenberch and Wata Endo who can deputize, Slot emphasized addressing other positional concerns first.
Reports suggest Liverpool’s interest in securing Semenyo from Bournemouth in January, with the Ghanaian international rumored to have a £65m release clause in his recent contract, allowing for a cost-effective transfer when the window reopens.
Sky has introduced a discounted Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, providing savings of £336 and access to over 1,400 live matches, including at least 215 Premier League fixtures.