Top source reveals lack of Edwards faith in bolstering Liverpool defence, as transfer requirements revealed

Liverpool sporting director Michael Edwards during the red carpet arrivals for the 2018 Liverpool Players' Awards at Anfield, Liverpool. PRESS ASSOCIATION Photo. Picture date: Thursday May 10, 2018. See PA story SOCCER Liverpool. Photo credit should read: Peter Byrne/PA Wire
Liverpool will only make a defensive signing this month if the price is right and the player in question can fit into the club’s longer-term plans, according to a report.
The Reds are short on centre-back options, with all three senior stars out of action. Indeed, Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez will be out injured for some while longer.
But while Joel Matip’s adductor issue only a short-term issue, he has failed to prove consistent fitness.
As such, the Anfield hierarchy are considering adding to their squad as they look to defend the Premier League title.
According to The Athletic‘s James Pearce, however, top figures such as sporting director Michael Edwards have a definitive action plan in place for a signing.
What’s more, there is a “feeling” at the club that a transfer which meets their requirements is likely only possible in the summer market.
“They very rarely go in for short-term fixes,” Pearce told the Red Agenda podcast.
“From what I’ve been told, Liverpool are only interested in making a defensive signing this month – firstly if the price is right – and secondly if he’s a player they believe can fit in for the longer term.
“Not just someone who can just do a job until Van Dijk or Gomez are back, but someone who will actually enhance and compliment what they’ve got for seasons to come.
“I think the feeling is that it’s going to be easier to get someone like that in the summer.
“But, quite rightly, fans are worried about the here and now and not recruiting in January could end up proving very costly in terms of the Premier League and the battle for Champions League glory this season.”
Several names linked with Liverpool
As for who Liverpool could bring in this month, reports have linked several names with an Anfield switch.
Lille’s Sven Botman is among the recent additions to the club’s supposed radar. Speculation has suggested that the Reds have opened talks with the 20-year-old Dutchman.
Elsewhere in Europe, meanwhile, Juventus’ Merih Demiral could soon be available.
Liverpool’s hands are reportedly ‘tied’, though, because of the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.