Romano flags Liverpool’s centre-back hunt as window tightens

Liverpool are weighing up another defensive reinforcement before the summer transfer window closes, with national team manager Fabrizio Romano urging supporters to monitor the centre-back market.

Romano, speaking on his platform, highlighted central defence as the priority area for Jürgen Klopp’s successor Andoni Iraola, despite recent focus on attacking moves such as the pursuit of Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola.

The Italian journalist clarified that Liverpool are not actively pursuing Tottenham Hotspur right-back Djed Spence at this stage, countering repeated links connecting the clubs. “Then guys, let me say something on Liverpool and defenders. There are many reports on the right-back position, for the moment I’m not aware of movement for Djed Spence despite reports,” Romano said.

Centre-back, however, has emerged as the more pressing need. Liverpool have invested heavily in Jeremy Jacquet this summer, completing a £60 million deal for the French defender, who has since undergone shoulder surgery and is being managed carefully.

Iraola has described Jacquet as “fully fit and ready to go,” though questions persist over his readiness to meet the physical demands of Premier League football after such an injury. Liverpool’s defensive options are further complicated by the ongoing recovery of 19-year-old Giovanni Leoni, who suffered an ACL injury on his Liverpool debut last September and only recently resumed outdoor training.

Leoni is not expected to return to full match fitness until September, leaving Liverpool with limited depth in central defence ahead of another demanding domestic and European campaign. Virgil van Dijk remains the established leader, with Jacquet expected to play a key role, but Iraola’s new system demands intensity and aggression in defensive organisation.

Romano stressed that Liverpool are merely considering the possibility of adding another centre-back, not finalising a deal. “For Liverpool, keep an eye on centre-backs. What I’m hearing is Liverpool could consider a move for a centre-back in the summer transfer window in these final weeks – they could add one more player in this position. It’s not something to exclude,” he said.

The recruitment team’s focus now spans multiple positions, with attacking ambitions still prominent, but another centre-back could quickly become essential if the right profile emerges. With several weeks remaining before the deadline, Liverpool’s defensive planning is under scrutiny.

Romano’s update arrives as supporters weigh the balance between attacking ambition and defensive stability. The arrival of Barcola would reshape the forward line following Mohamed Salah’s departure, yet another centre-back could prove equally influential in shaping Iraola’s first season in charge.

The cautious tone from Romano reflects the fluid nature of the final weeks of the transfer window, where priorities can shift daily and deals hinge on last-minute developments.