Exclusive: Liverpool explore new centre-back option after latest blow

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(Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media/Imago) Wed 1 October 2025 7:00, UK Liverpool are exploring the option of bringing in a centre-back on loan in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.The Reds are light at the back following confirmation that Giovanni Leoni will be out for an extended period after suffering an ACL tear.As a result of the demanding fixture schedule, the champions are expected to turn to the January window to keep their chances of retaining the Premier League title alive.Credit: ImagoLiverpool are close to defensive crisisLiverpool had been tipped to complete a permanent signing when the window reopens, in order to fill the void left by the injured Leoni.However, sources say that Arne Slot’s side could instead opt for a short-term loan deal to provide a quick fix to their issues in the centre of defence.After losing Leoni, Liverpool have been left with just three recognised centre-backs, Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate, and Joe Gomez.It means that if any of those three are to get injured, then Slot’s side will be in real trouble at the back. MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES With Van Dijk and Konate expected to start every game, currently the Reds are able to get by, but they may have to dip into the loan market to bring in some cover in January.Ryan Gravenberch dropped into centre-back after Konate was substituted during Liverpool’s 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace.Wataru Endo is also being considered as a short-term replacement for Leoni, but the transfer window will give the Premier League champions a chance to properly solve the problem.Liverpool paying the price for Marc Guehi sagaIt was no secret over the summer that Liverpool were close to signing Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, before the deal ultimately fell through on deadline day.Credit: ImagoRather than forking out the £40million that Palace were asking for in the early stages of the transfer window, the Reds waited until the last moment to try and agree a better deal.However this strategy came back to bite them, with Oliver Glasner blocking Guehi’s move to Anfield, as the South London side were unable to bring in a suitable replacement.With the benefit of hindsight, Slot’s side would have likely paid extra to ensure they secured the England international, especially now that they are short at the back.Of course, Liverpool could still make a move for Guehi in January, but with his contract expiring at the end of the season, it would make financial sense to wait until he is available on a free transfer.For more Liverpool and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.