Liverpool supporters hoping for another major signing at full-back may need to temper their expectations.
Speaking on talkSPORT, James Pearce suggested he would be surprised if the Reds invested heavily in either full-back position before the transfer window closes.
Instead, Liverpool appear content with the options they already have.
Kerkez Has His Deputy
On the left-hand side, the picture appears relatively straightforward.
According to Pearce, Kostas Tsimikas is expected to remain as Milos Kerkez’s deputy.
While Tsimikas has been linked with moves away in previous transfer windows, Liverpool seemingly still value his experience and reliability as a backup option.
Kerkez is expected to be the first-choice left-back, but with a long Premier League, European and domestic cup campaign ahead, rotation will be essential.
Keeping Tsimikas provides continuity and avoids the need to spend significant money on another player for that role.
Bradley’s Path Shouldn’t Be Blocked
The situation at right-back is perhaps even more interesting.
Pearce believes Liverpool are reluctant to spend heavily because they do not want to block Conor Bradley’s development.
Bradley remains one of the club’s brightest young talents and is highly regarded by Andoni Iraola’s coaching staff.
After impressing whenever given opportunities, Liverpool appear keen to give him every chance to establish himself as Jeremie Frimpong’s main competitor.
Bringing in another expensive full-back could reduce those opportunities.
Smart Squad Planning
Rather than constantly buying players, Liverpool seem focused on getting the right balance within the squad.
With:
● Milos Kerkez
● Kostas Tsimikas
● Jeremie Frimpong
● Conor Bradley
the Reds already possess four recognised senior full-backs.
From the club’s perspective, that may represent enough depth for the season ahead.
Instead of strengthening positions where competition already exists, Liverpool may prefer to direct resources elsewhere.
Other Areas Remain Priorities
Liverpool continue to be linked with:
● A versatile winger
● A centre-back
● Potential midfield reinforcements if players leave
Those positions arguably represent greater priorities than spending another £40–60 million on a full-back.
Given the club’s recruitment strategy under Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, that approach would be consistent with Liverpool’s emphasis on value and squad balance.
Not Everyone Will Agree
Some supporters will inevitably disagree.
There are still questions surrounding Tsimikas’ long-term future, while injuries have occasionally disrupted Bradley’s progress.
Others believe adding another elite full-back would improve the squad immediately.
However, Pearce’s comments suggest Liverpool’s hierarchy are comfortable with their current options.
Trust in the Young Players
Perhaps the biggest takeaway is Liverpool’s continued faith in Conor Bradley.
Rather than signing another high-profile player to compete with him, the club appear prepared to trust the academy graduate to continue his development.
If Bradley fulfils his potential, Liverpool may not need another expensive right-back for many years.
For now, it appears Liverpool’s focus lies elsewhere.
And unless circumstances change dramatically before the window closes, don’t expect a major-money full-back signing at Anfield this summer.
Source: James Pearce via talkSPORT
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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