Liverpool risk being left short again as Joyce outlines failed triple chase

Liverpool is urgently seeking defensive reinforcements but faces recurring issues, resulting in a worryingly thin squad. As reported by Paul Joyce in The Times, the Premier League-winning team now has only two recognized senior centre-backs available, with Joe Gomez returning injured with an achilles problem. This leaves Virgil van Dijk and Ibou Konate as the sole fit and established options, a fragile situation following Jarell Quansah's sale to Bayer Leverkusen for £30 million earlier this summer.

Over the past three consecutive summers, Liverpool has failed in bids for three centre-backs: Leny Yoro, Levi Colwill, and Dean Huijsen. The club admires Crystal Palace's Marc Guehi, who helped win the FA Cup last season and is in his contract's final year, but will likely avoid a drawn-out transfer saga to prevent overpaying or being held to ransom. This stance could allow other clubs, such as Real Madrid who secured Huijsen, to capitalize on the opportunity.

The defensive shortage highlights manager Arne Slot's push to reshape the backline, particularly after the sales of Quansah and Nat Phillips, with Gomez's injury underscoring the vulnerability for the long season ahead. Recruitment is deemed critical, with the club scouting young centre-backs across Europe for the right blend of age, resale value, and profile. However, without a swift deal, Liverpool risks over-reliance on just two centre-backs, having already sanctioned exits including Trent Alexander-Arnold's move to Madrid.