Liverpool transfer poised to collapse leaving Slot’s plan for defence in tatters
Liverpool’s plans to reinforce their backline have come unstuck despite the Reds having seemingly come close to luring one of Arne Slot’s former players to Anfield ahead of transfer deadline day
Liverpool’s chances of securing Lutsharel Geertruida on loan from Sunderland for the rest of the season are dwindling as Monday’s transfer deadline looms. Geertruida, who previously played under Reds manager Arne Slot at Feyenoord, has been on loan at Sunderland from Bundesliga team RB Leipzig.
Following Liverpool’s 4-1 home victory against Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday, Slot hinted that the Reds were looking to bolster their squad before Monday evening’s transfer deadline.
Geertruida, a 25-year-old right-back who can also operate as a centre-back and defensive midfielder, emerged as one of several options Liverpool are mulling over ahead of the 7pm deadline on Monday.
However, concerns that the deal would be complex due to the need for agreement from both Sunderland and Leipzig have now materialised.
While it’s understood that both Geertruida and Liverpool are eager to push forward with the deal, Sunderland are currently unable to release Geertruida as they haven’t found a suitable replacement for the versatile Dutchman.
READ MORE: Jurgen Klopp plays key role in Liverpool sealing transfer hours before deadlineREAD MORE: Dominik Szoboszlai gives intriguing contract update after another makeshift masterclass
The expectation in the North East is that Geertruida will instead be gearing up as usual for Monday’s home match against Burnley, which kicks off an hour after the transfer deadline.
Liverpool have been grappling with a shortage of right-backs, with Conor Bradley ruled out for the season following knee surgery, Jeremie Frimpong currently benched due to a groin issue, and Joe Gomez also struggling with fitness.
Dominik Szoboszlai had to step in and fill the gap at right-back over the weekend, while a serious ACL injury to young centre-back Giovanni Leoni has further reduced manager Arne Slot’s defensive options.
Speaking after Saturday’s 4-1 win over Newcastle, Slot said: “I think we are trying to strengthen the squad and not trying to weaken it.
“But yeah, 48 hours to go. Let’s see where the window ends up.”
“I think there’s always a lot of talk about Liverpool and a lot of talks about Liverpool players,” Slot added, following speculation over Curtis Jones’ future. “There was a lot of noise around the club in the last week – maybe I should say weeks – but I think our fans showed today what noise really means.
“That’s being loud, because they were so helpful today. That is what noise is here in Liverpool.”
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