James Pearce names three players that could solve Liverpool’s centre-back issues

Centre-Back Questions Loom As Liverpool Weigh Up January Strategy Liverpool’s impressive defensive consistency under Arne Slot has hit its first major test. Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury in the Carabao Cup tie against Southampton has ruled him out for the rest of the campaign, removing one of the club’s promising rotational options. As it stands, Slot is left with Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez as his only specialist senior centre-backs. That shortage has naturally triggered concerns among supporters, prompting direct questions on potential January business. One fan, Haider A, asked James Pearce of The Athletic: “Any update on Liverpool making a move for Marc Guehi in January?” Pearce Stresses Calm Over Crisis Pearce’s response was measured, even if it may not ease all concerns. “It was a real blow losing Leoni for the season, but Liverpool still seem relaxed about their centre-back options. Whether further injuries or form trigger a change of heart in the coming months, we’ll have to wait and see. After a summer of unprecedented spending from the club, it wouldn’t surprise me if the January window is very quiet.” Photo: IMAGO That calm stance reflects internal confidence in the versatility already within the squad. As Pearce added, “Arne Slot may be down to three specialist senior centre-backs, but Ryan Gravenberch, Wataru Endo and Andy Robertson can also operate there.” It is clear Liverpool believe they have enough cover to cope unless another setback forces their hand. Internal Solutions Or External Investment? There is logic to that approach. Slot has already demonstrated tactical flexibility, often shifting full backs and midfielders into unconventional roles. Robertson has previously featured on the left of a back three for Scotland while Endo has international experience at centre-half. Even Gravenberch, despite being predominantly a midfielder, has the physical attributes to drop deeper if required. However, relying on such adaptability comes with risk. Van Dijk has been imperious but turns 34 at the end of the season. Konate’s availability has fluctuated and Gomez has had lengthy layoffs in the past. It would be no surprise if Liverpool are quietly assessing the market even while presenting a composed front. January Window To Test Resolve Marc Guehi remains an obvious profile fit given his Premier League pedigree and homegrown status. Whether Liverpool decide to accelerate interest may depend less on scouting and more on the simple luck of staying injury free over the festive period. Slot may view stability as more valuable than disruption, especially with his side challenging on multiple fronts. What is certain is that Liverpool are choosing patience over panic. That approach has served them well in recent years. Time will tell if this is another calculated gamble that pays off. Our View – Anfield Index Analysis This all sounds reassuring on paper, but most Liverpool supporters will be quietly anxious reading between the lines. Three senior centre-backs is cutting it fine for a title defence and deep European run. Supporters have seen this film before. One or two more injuries and suddenly it is Jordan Henderson at centre-half away at Southampton all over again. Yes, Robertson and Endo can fill in there, but that feels like short term firefighting rather than a sustainable solution. Slot has earned trust after winning the Premier League in his debut season, but even the best systems crumble without stability at the back. Fans would rather pre-empt a crisis than react to one in February. There is also the psychological lift that a January signing provides. Bringing someone like Guehi through the door would not just strengthen depth, it would reinforce the message that Liverpool intend to dominate rather than merely compete. Saying “we’ll have to wait and see” is sensible from Pearce, but supporters are tired of waiting. They want decisiveness, not damage limitation.