Liverpool are facing growing scrutiny as the transfer window closes, with supporters questioning whether the club has done enough to address immediate weaknesses. The Reds have invested in younger players and future arrivals, but concerns remain over the defensive midfield position and the quality of the full-back options.
The criticism comes during a significant transition at Anfield. Liverpool are entering a Premier League season without Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané or Roberto Firmino for the first time since 2015–16. Salah’s departure has created particular pressure for the club to find a reliable replacement, although the signing of Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain provides a major attacking addition. The deal is reportedly worth up to £123 million.
Liverpool have also continued to monitor other attacking options, including Crystal Palace forward Ismaïla Sarr. Reports indicate that the club opened talks and submitted a proposal worth approximately £50 million, although it remained unclear whether the transfer would be completed before the deadline.
The club’s recruitment strategy has also included younger players and longer-term planning. Liverpool’s current squad lists several developing players, including goalkeeper Harvey Davies and centre-back Giovanni Leoni, while new additions such as Jérémy Jacquet, Victor Muñoz and Ronald Araújo have strengthened the squad in different areas.
However, supporters remain concerned that the club has not sufficiently addressed its most urgent needs. Liverpool’s midfield requires greater defensive balance, while the full-back positions have also attracted criticism. Some fans question the wisdom of prioritising players who will arrive later when established first-team reinforcements are needed immediately.
The contrast with rival clubs has intensified that frustration. Chelsea are close to signing Monaco midfielder Lamine Kamara, while other Premier League teams have continued to make immediate additions before the deadline.
Liverpool’s situation is therefore less about a lack of spending and more about recruitment priorities. The arrival of Barcola shows that the club is willing to make a major investment, but supporters still want the squad’s structural weaknesses addressed rather than relying mainly on future development.
The end of the Salah–Mané–Firmino era makes the transition especially important. Liverpool now need their new signings to adapt quickly, while the club must ensure that its midfield and defensive problems do not undermine the team’s ability to compete in the present season.
