Liverpool’s rebuild stalls: Steele says another centre‑back needed

Around £60 million was spent on Jeremy Jacquet’s move from Rennes to Liverpool, a deal that signals the club’s continued defensive rebuild after Ibrahima Konate left on a free transfer to Real Madrid, according to journalist Lewis Steele in his analysis.

Steele argues that Liverpool still require an additional centre‑back despite signing Jacquet. He discussed the issue with Trev Downey on the Anfield Index platform. He notes the French defender is seen as a major investment for the future, but expectations must stay realistic. “Realistically with both of them they’d be better as the third and fourth choice options and then they can slowly build into the team,” Steele said.

The departure of Konate to Real Madrid has left Liverpool with a noticeable experience gap. Steele described the loss as “I think losing Konate was a loss,” and highlighted that Virgil van Dijk is turning 35 next week while Joe Gomez has struggled with injuries. He added that Jacquet and Leon, both highly rated youngsters, have zero minutes of Premier League experience between them.

When asked about other targets, Steele confirmed Liverpool had previously examined Maxence Lacroix. He said, “I think they definitely had a look at him in the past,” and added, “It does seem for all intents and purposes that he’s going to Chelsea this summer.” Steele also hinted that the club already has another unnamed defender lined up.

Summing up, Steele warned, “I don’t think they can go into the season with the centre back options they have.” He pointed out that the recruitment strategy often stays quiet until deals accelerate, fitting the new era under Andoni Iraola. The implication is that Liverpool must act before the transfer window closes to secure defensive balance.