Liverpool target free agent Dutch star as short-term defensive cover amidst injury crisis

Daryl Janmaat is a free agent and has been offered to Liverpool

Former Watford and Newcastle United star Daryl Janmaat has emerged as one of the names to provide defensive cover for Liverpool, according to Teamtalk (h/t Liverpool Echo).

The Dutch international last played for Watford but left the Hornets after their relegation from the Premier League.

Liverpool’s Belgian striker Divock Origi (R) vies with Watford’s Dutch defender Daryl Janmaat during the English Premier League football match between Liverpool and Watford at Anfield in Liverpool, north west England on February 27, 2019. (Photo by Anthony DEVLIN / AFP) /

Janmaat hasn’t signed for a club since leaving Watford but has loads of Premier League experience. The Dutchman can play in the midfield while he made a name for himself as a right-back. Janmaat spent four seasons with Watford and two with Newcastle in the Premier League.

The report claims that Georginio Wijnaldum had given a great reference for his Dutch teammate. Any deal for Janmaat would be a short-term one (h/t Liverpool Echo) despite the spate of injuries we have had.

Joe Gomez was the latest star to pick up an injury and he seems set to miss a sizeable chunk of the season.

WATFORD, ENGLAND – MARCH 03: Daryl Janmaat of Watford reacts during the Premier League match between Watford FC and Leicester City at Vicarage Road on March 03, 2019 in Watford, United Kingdom. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

Virgil van Dijk was already out after the Everton game while Trent Alexander-Arnold picked up a knock in the 1-1 draw against Manchester City.

A tough decision for the Reds

Janmaat does provide a lot of experience to the team and can cover several positions. However, he has been out of action since leaving Watford and adding him, even on a short-term deal, might not bear the right results.

It might be better to give some of our youngsters a chance. Neco Williams has been decent in some games and could play in place of Alexander-Arnold.

Rhys Williams and Nat Phillips have impressed in their limited outings while we can use Fabinho as a right-back or a centre-back once he returns.

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Liverpool do have some big decisions to make regarding their defence, and it will be interesting to see if we make a move for someone in the winter window.