Liverpool’s transfer window has come to a close with only two new signings, leaving two glaring vacancies in the squad. The club’s new era under Arne Slot began with a focus on center-back, defensive midfield, and a new wide forward. However, the limited activity can be attributed to the changes in the dugout and boardroom, as Slot wanted to assess the squad he inherited before making any major transfer decisions.
One player who seemed destined to join Liverpool was Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad. He was identified as the solution for the No. 6 role in Slot’s midfield. However, the transfer fell through when Zubimendi had a change of heart, despite Liverpool’s belief that the deal was agreed upon. This setback led the club to reconsider pursuing alternatives, although fans were less pleased with the decision. The club held firm, believing that few players in the world could improve upon the current squad.
Despite the resolve to stick with their current options, it was evident that defensive midfield needed strengthening. Players like Porto’s Alan Varela, Atalanta’s Ederson, and Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand were considered feasible alternatives. However, Liverpool’s hierarchy remained firm, not wanting to repeat the mistakes of the previous regime by pursuing stopgap options.
While Liverpool’s approach to the transfer market may have been perceived as lacking ambition or urgency, there were instances where their patience paid off. The club secured big-money deals for fringe talents like Fabio Carvalho, Sepp van den Berg, and Bobby Clark, as well as holding onto players like Caoimhin Kelleher and Joe Gomez. These deals showcased the acumen of sporting director Richard Hughes and garnered favor from fans.
Overall, Liverpool’s transfer window can be considered a success in some regards. The arrival of Chiesa as a new wildcard option has bolstered the attack, and there have been positive signs of the implementation of Slot’s new style of play. However, the failure to address the vacancies in the squad, particularly the absence of a left-sided center-back and a starting No. 6, leaves a sense of missed opportunity. The uncertainty surrounding contract negotiations for key players adds further uncertainty. The hope is that this is just the first step in a bold regime change and that the pieces will eventually fall into place. However, in the fast-paced world of modern football, time waits for no one.