Liverpool’s pursuit of midfielder Martin Zubimendi took an unexpected turn when the player had a change of heart and decided to stay with Real Sociedad. This left Liverpool without their priority target and facing a dilemma as the transfer window deadline approached. Journalists have speculated that the club may not sign another No. 6 midfielder before the window closes.
As a result, Liverpool’s new plan involves relying on Ryan Gravenberch as the first-choice No. 6, with Curtis Jones, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Wataru Endo as alternatives. Endo is not the preferred option for manager Arne Slot, but he may have to step in if no further signings are made.
Liverpool’s struggles in the No. 6 market have become a recurring issue. The club’s recruitment staff had concerns about the long-term contracts given to players like Fabinho and Jordan Henderson, as it deviated from the “right football age” for the squad. Fabinho had an exceptional season in 2021/22 but experienced a decline the following season before leaving for Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool’s attempts to address the No. 6 issue in the past also failed, with missed opportunities to sign Aurelien Tchouameni, Moises Caicedo, and Romeo Lavia. The club seems determined to avoid short-term fixes this time and does not want to find themselves in a similar situation with Endo.
However, it raises the question of whether Liverpool can afford to continue waiting for their top targets. While the market for elite-level No. 6 midfielders is limited, there are alternative options that the club’s data team may be aware of. Players like Ederson, Morten Hjulmand, Angelo Stiller, Bruno Guimaraes, and Adam Wharton could potentially elevate the squad and suit Slot’s system.
Liverpool’s failure to address the No. 6 position over the past three summers has had consequences. The team’s success under Jurgen Klopp coincided with Fabinho’s presence, and their decline followed his departure. In contrast, teams like Arsenal and Manchester City have strengthened their midfield with signings like Declan Rice, Jorginho, and Rodri, respectively.
The situation could still change, as Liverpool prefers to operate discreetly in the transfer market. However, if they fail to sign Zubimendi and do not pursue another No. 6, they risk falling behind their rivals. This would leave Slot without the necessary tools to compete effectively.