​Liverpool still have a sizable portion of the summer transfer window ahead before questions about their plans become pressing. One major objective for the Reds this summer should be to upgrade the squad across multiple areas, not just a single department. Their defence, midfield, and attack could each benefit from at least one fresh addition to bring them closer to title contention again. With financial resources not unlimited, Liverpool will need to be strategic about both incomings and outgoings. If they shed too many players without adequately replacing them, injuries and fixture congestion could derail their campaign once more.
This context helps explain why the possibility of Liverpool hijacking a €25 million deal that Arsenal have been pursuing seems sensible. Lutsharel Geertruida, a target Liverpool pursued in the January window, featured prominently after the right-back position suffered significant attrition during the 2025-26 season, forcing players like Dominik Szoboszlai and Curtis Jones to operate there for extended periods. The failure to seal a deal with RB Leipzig and Sunderland—where Geertruida was previously on loan—meant the move never materialised, and Liverpool instead turned their attention to Denzel Dumfries, a pursuit that also collapsed.
Since that Geertruida deal fell through, rumours have persisted, and a fresh report from Caught Offside has provided new context. The outlet cited sources close to the agents’ industry, noting that Arsenal have placed Geertruida on their shortlist for the right-back role, with the board attracted by his versatility and experience. Liverpool, meanwhile, are said to be monitoring the Dutch international as manager Iraola seeks a modern full-back capable of contributing in possession while offering defensive flexibility. Interest in Geertruida has also been echoed by other outlets; Football365 reported in June that the Reds were “very keen” on the RB Leipzig defender after discussions between his representatives and Liverpool officials. However, no official bid has yet been confirmed.
This potential acquisition makes sense for a number of reasons. First, versatility is increasingly valuable in the modern game, where congestion and long seasons require players who can adapt to multiple roles. An injury crisis can strike at any time, so a player who can cover several positions reduces risk and provides tactical flexibility. For example, Florian Wirtz, primarily a number 10, has often been deployed on the wing or as a number eight, illustrating how a player’s utility can enhance squad depth. Geertruida’s ability to contribute in different systems and formations would make him a valuable asset for a Liverpool side aiming to modernise their approach and improve in both possession and defensive transitions.
From a strategic standpoint, the debate over whether to buy multiple players or prioritize targeted signings remains critical for a club with finite resources. Upgrading the defence, midfield, and attack requires a careful balancing act: adding quality without overloading the wage bill or destabilising the squad harmony. A player like Geertruida could provide a blend of experience, versatility, and modern full-back capabilities, aligning with a Liverpool side that seeks to press high, recycle possession efficiently, and switch quickly between defensive shapes.
In short, Liverpool’s summer strategy should focus on purposeful reinforcements across the spine of the team, with a particular eye on acquiring players who can perform multiple roles and adapt to a demanding schedule. The ongoing interest in Geertruida underscores the club’s intent to secure a right-back who can contribute to both defence and progression in possession. While Arsenal’s interest and ongoing rumours reflect a competitive market, Liverpool’s own evaluations and potential bids will be watched closely as the window unfolds. If Liverpool can land the right players at the right price, they could press the reset button effectively and position themselves to challenge for silverware again in the near future.