Sunderland boss Regis Le Bris claims Lutsharel Geertruida is “ready to play” after the Black Cats blocked a move to Liverpool before the transfer deadline.
It was reported that the Dutchman and his parent club, RB Leipzig, had given a green light to his switch to Anfield, but Sunderland refused to play ball.
Geertruida joined the newly-promoted Premier League outfit on loan last summer, and it was down to them to decide whether they were prepared let him leave. When asked how the player reacted after being told he wouldn’t be joining the Reds, Le Bris replied:
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“We’ve had many conversations. I think we were honest and really well connected all the way through. When the deadline was finished and over, he accepted the decision. I think he is ready to play for Sunderland. I don’t have any worries about him being okay from now on.”
Liverpool have left themselves short of options
The decision not to pursue an alternative to Geertruida means that head coach Arne Slot could be without a recognised right-back for a while.
Conor Bradley faces an extended spell out with a knee injury, while Jeremie Frimpong will be unavailable for a few weeks due to a hamstring problem.
Dominik Szoboszlai will have to provide cover, along with Joe Gomez and Wataru Endo, in upcoming fixtures.
A right-back could be signed this summer
A lot now hinges on how long Bradley is on the treatment table. If he is not ready to return for the start of next season, a new addition for that position will be required.
Reports in Italy suggest that Roma’s Zeki Celik is one possible solution. The 28-year-old is out of contract in June and he could be available on a free transfer.
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