Liverpool encouraged to pull off a surprise swoop for Arsenal ace by former Champions League winner
Hugo Ekitike has carried the bulk of Liverpool’s attacking burden among their summer signings, emerging as the main source of goals. However, Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have struggled to justify the hype following their moves from Bournemouth and Bayer Leverkusen respectively.
In defence, Arne Slot oversaw the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose long association with Liverpool ended with a free transfer to Real Madrid. Former Reds defender Stephen Warnock believes the England international’s exit has left a significant void and insists Liverpool must strengthen at right-back when the transfer window opens. Speaking to AceOdds, he explained:
“When I assess Liverpool’s defence, I think they need both a centre-back and a right-back,” Warnock said. “At right-back they’ve got Frimpong, Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley, but all three are prone to injuries and lack the durability to play every week. Liverpool need players who can be relied upon consistently, and right now those options aren’t fit enough to do that.”
He also dismissed the idea of using Dominik Szoboszlai as a makeshift solution.
“That’s why I feel signing a right-back is just as crucial as bringing in a centre-back,” added Warnock, a former Champions League winner, before identifying Arsenal’s Jurrien Timber as his ideal candidate.
“In a perfect scenario, I’d go for Jurrien Timber, though I doubt Arsenal would let him leave. For me, he’s the best right-back in the league. He’s outstanding, especially in one-v-one situations, and since returning from his ACL injury, he’s shown real strength and resilience.”
Since arriving at Arsenal from Ajax in 2023, Timber has become a key component of what is widely regarded as the Premier League’s strongest defence. Now 24, the Dutch international has made 75 appearances for the Gunners and is firmly established as one of the game’s top defenders. While a move from north London to Merseyside seems unlikely, Warnock believes Slot would greatly benefit from Timber’s versatility and all-round quality.
Warnock also highlights centre-back reinforcements
Warnock, who made 67 appearances for Liverpool between 2000 and 2007, also feels the centre-back position urgently needs attention, particularly with Ibrahima Konaté no longer performing at the required standard. He pointed to two Crystal Palace defenders as potential solutions, starting with captain Marc Guéhi.
“I think Marc Guéhi would be an excellent replacement,” Warnock said. “He brings leadership and international experience. Whenever he’s played for England, he’s been outstanding. He’s very comfortable on the ball, reads the game superbly and, while he isn’t the tallest, he makes up for it with his physical strength.”
Warnock also praised Maxence Lacroix as another strong option.
“I really like Maxence Lacroix as well. He’s a sensational player with incredible pace, which allows you to play a high line with someone like van Dijk alongside him. He’s got the physical presence too.”
In conclusion, Warnock believes Liverpool would be well served by signing either defender.
“If they brought in Guéhi or Lacroix, they’d be delighted with either. Both are top-class centre-backs.”