Liverpool supporters have spent the past week abuzz with anticipation over the potential arrival of Alexander Isak from Newcastle. The Swedish forward’s skill and goal-scoring abilities have sparked hopes of a marquee addition to Arne Slot’s attacking lineup. Yet, Saturday’s 4-2 preseason loss to AC Milan at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium offered a sobering reminder that the club’s real priority lies elsewhere—addressing their glaring defensive vulnerabilities.
A Preseason Reality Check
While speculation swirled around a potential move for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, Liverpool’s preseason fixture against AC Milan provided a more sobering insight into where the club’s immediate priorities should lie. Arne Slot’s side, featuring seven summer signings, suffered a 4-2 defeat at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium—an outcome that exposed defensive concerns ahead of their Premier League title defense.
Having comfortably dispatched Preston and Stoke in earlier friendlies, Milan represented a tougher challenge. Despite goals from Dominik Szoboszlai and Cody Gakpo, the Reds’ defensive issues overshadowed their attacking promise. On the ball, performances from Szoboszlai, Florian Wirtz, and 16-year-old Rio Ngumoha were encouraging. Off the ball, however, Liverpool looked vulnerable.
Injuries and squad rotation forced Slot to experiment with an improvised backline. Ryan Gravenberch, a natural midfielder, lined up alongside Kostas Tsimikas, Virgil van Dijk, and Ibrahima Konaté. Gravenberch performed admirably—arguably outperforming Van Dijk, who struggled to contain Rafael Leao—but the need for a proper defensive reinforcement was evident. With Wataru Endo injured and Joe Gomez returning home to treat an Achilles issue, Liverpool’s lack of defensive depth has been laid bare.
A Growing Defensive Crisis
As things stand, Liverpool have just three senior centre-backs: Van Dijk, Konaté, and Gomez. Given the latter two’s troubling injury records, this is an unsustainable situation for a team competing for domestic and European honours. The decision to sell Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen now looks questionable, with Slot himself acknowledging that there is no direct replacement within the squad.
With their Premier League opener against Bournemouth less than three weeks away, Liverpool cannot risk starting the season so thin at the back. While preseason games are often used for experimentation, the ease with which Milan exposed the Reds’ patched-up defense should serve as a loud warning for Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes.
Why Isak Can Wait
There’s no denying that Alexander Isak would be an exciting addition to Liverpool’s attacking options. His flair, technique, and finishing ability could elevate the forward line. However, signing a striker—even one as talented as Isak—won’t fix the issues at the back. Goals may win games, but defensive solidity wins titles, and right now, Liverpool lack the latter.
Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has emerged as a realistic target. His composure on the ball, athleticism, and experience in the Premier League make him a strong candidate to shore up the defense. While Guehi’s contract situation—set to expire in 2026—may tempt Liverpool to wait for a future deal, the current defensive shortage doesn’t allow that luxury. If not Guehi, then another high-caliber centre-back must be brought in without delay.
Looking Ahead
Arne Slot is still in the early stages of shaping his Liverpool squad. The attacking potential is evident—Szoboszlai, Wirtz, Gakpo, and Ngumoha all look capable of delivering in the final third. But no amount of attacking talent can compensate for a fragile defense. Van Dijk, while still a leader, can’t be expected to cover for makeshift partners week after week.
The transfer window demands balance, and Liverpool must act with urgency. Securing a centre-back is no longer an option—it’s essential. Once that’s addressed, then attention can return to exciting targets like Isak.
Final Thoughts
While dreams of Alexander Isak lighting up Anfield are exciting, Liverpool’s preseason loss to AC Milan was a stark reminder of a more immediate concern. Without reinforcements at the back, title hopes could unravel before the campaign even begins. Until a top-quality centre-back arrives, the club’s transfer priority is clear—and any move for Isak will have to wait.
