Liverpool Pursues Defensive Reinforcements Ahead of Transfer Deadline

Liverpool’s head coach, Arne Slot, has expressed a clear intention to bolster his defensive lineup ahead of the imminent transfer deadline this Monday. The team almost secured a deal for Marc Guehi at the conclusion of the summer transfer window, only for Crystal Palace to withdraw at the last minute after failing to identify a suitable replacement. Subsequently, the club parted ways with their captain, selling him to Manchester City in January.

In recent weeks, Slot has faced challenges due to injuries affecting players such as Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Giovanni Leoni. Additionally, Liverpool opted against selling Andy Robertson to Tottenham earlier this week, acknowledging their limited defensive options.

Following Saturday’s impressive 4-1 victory over Newcastle, Slot informed reporters, “We are aiming to strengthen the squad rather than weaken it. However, with only 48 hours remaining, we will see how the window unfolds.”

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool has initiated discussions to acquire Geertruida. The Dutch international, who can operate as a right-back, center-back, and midfielder, is currently on a loan spell at Sunderland from RB Leipzig.

Ben Jacobs has reported that Liverpool is poised to assume Geertruida’s loan for the remainder of the season after being presented with the opportunity to sign him in recent days.

Geertruida, hailing from Rotterdam, progressed through the Feyenoord academy, joining the first team in 2017. He became a pivotal player under Slot’s management, notably contributing to Feyenoord’s journey to the 2021-22 Europa Conference League final and their triumph in the 2022-23 Dutch Eredivisie.

After seven successful years with Feyenoord, Geertruida moved to RB Leipzig in 2024, where he made 35 appearances across all competitions before being made available for loan for the 2025-26 season.

Liverpool faced Leipzig in the 2024-25 Champions League, with Geertruida praising Slot’s influence prior to the match. “Arne managed to bring out the best in me,” he remarked. “He was never hesitant to share constructive criticism, and his insights were always valuable. His arrival at Feyenoord was transformative, fostering a dominant playing style that led us to win the league title and cup, as well as reaching the Conference League final. He is not only an astute coach but also approachable and open to dialogue.”

Geertruida is scheduled to take the field with Sunderland on Monday, as they face Burnley just one hour after the 7 PM transfer deadline. It remains uncertain whether he will continue with Sunderland or make the switch to Liverpool.