Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Liverpool manager Arne Slot is currently focused on bolstering his defensive options ahead of the upcoming season as the Premier League champions prepare to defend their title. Despite heavy investment in attacking players, including the arrivals of Hugo Ekitiké and potential signing Alexander Isak, Liverpool's defense remains a concern due to a lack of new centre-backs in the transfer window so far.

Slot emphasized that he does not have concerns about the current centre-back situation, noting that midfielder Ryan Gravenberch can competently fill in at centre-back if needed, alongside options like Wataru Endo. However, the club's defensive depth was tested during a 4-2 friendly loss to AC Milan, where tactical improvisation was required, including playing midfielder Trey Nyoni in defence and using Endo alongside Ibrahima Konaté.

Defensive injuries heighten these concerns. Ahead of the Community Shield against Crystal Palace, key defenders Joe Gomez and Conor Bradley are doubtful due to fitness issues. If captain Andy Robertson recovers from illness, Liverpool could field a back four featuring Jeremie Frimpong, Virgil van Dijk, Konaté, and Robertson. Yet, a recent hamstring issue for Nyoni and the general shortage of senior centre-back options mean Slot and the club are under pressure to secure at least one more central defender before the transfer window closes.

The pre-season period has allowed Slot to experiment tactically, but as the competitive season approaches rapidly, strengthening the defence is becoming critical. The primary focus for the rest of the transfer window remains to sign a reliable centre-back to avoid the defensive vulnerabilities experienced in recent campaigns when defending the Premier League title.

PP