Journalist Sam Tighe claims Liverpool could sign fourth midfielder this summer
Liverpool’s midfield overhaul is a focal point of this summer’s transfer activity. Journalist Sam Tighe believes that the Reds may not be done yet. Despite already securing deals for Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, Tighe suggests that Liverpool could still enter the market for a fourth midfielder.
Southampton’s holding midfielder Romeo Lavia is a target for Liverpool, and while their first bid stood rejected, the Reds shall make a second offer as per The Athletic [subscription required]. Despite the potential arrival of Lavia, Tighe raises concerns about the age balance in Liverpool’s midfield. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Transfer Talk podcast about Lavia and Liverpool’s departing midfielders here is what Tighe said:
“It’s [age of the midfield] just something I would implore Liverpool to look at, and it’s why I wouldn’t be surprised that, even after Lavia which would make it three signings, they go back into the market for a fourth player.”
With the departures of Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and James Milner on free transfers, it was evident that Liverpool needed to reinforce their midfield. However, the extent of the transformation further remains fueled by Jordan Henderson’s move to Al Ettifaq and the likely departure of Fabinho to Saudi Arabia.
With the likes of Mac Allister and Trent Alexander-Arnold (if he transitions into midfield) considered the more experienced players in the midfield at just 24 years old, the squad seems heavily skewed towards youth after last season’s complaints of an old. Szoboszlai, Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott, and Lavia are all promising talents but lack the experience that players like Henderson and Fabinho brought to the team.
Is the midfield too young?
Tighe acknowledges that signing young players was what fans were asking for, but he questions whether the balance is now skewed too heavily towards youth. He suggests that Lavia, as a relatively inexperienced player, may face periods of inconsistency, making it crucial for Liverpool to have depth in midfield.
The journalist implores Liverpool to consider adding a fourth midfielder to the squad to ensure they have enough depth and experience to navigate the challenges of a long and demanding season. Having four starter quality midfielders would allow the team to rotate and manage players’ workloads effectively, especially during congested fixture schedules.
The club’s midfield transformation has been swift and substantial, but ensuring the squad has the right balance and depth is essential for a successful season. Marco Verratti sees himself linked with a move to the Reds, and hopefully, getting him on board helps bring the balance to a decent level.
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The Reds will need to strike a balance between investing in young talent and maintaining the right mix of experience to achieve their goals in both domestic and European competitions.
