Liverpool's Defensive Reshuffle: Scanlon Departs as Slot Eyes Reinforcements
Liverpool have initiated a strategic defensive reshuffle by sending young full-back Calum Scanlon on loan to Cardiff City, while manager Arne Slot actively pursues reinforcements to address a critical injury crisis at the back. The Reds' defensive ranks have been severely depleted, prompting urgent action in the final days of the January transfer window.
Injury Crisis Forces Defensive Adjustments
The defensive shortage has become increasingly apparent for Liverpool this season, with multiple key players sidelined through injury. Jeremie Frimpong, Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Giovanni Leoni are all currently unavailable, leaving Slot with limited options at the back.
This shortage was evident during Liverpool's recent 4-1 Premier League victory over Newcastle United, where Slot was forced to name several academy prospects on the bench. In that match, Dominik Szoboszlai once again filled in at right-back, partnering Ibrahima Konate, Virgil van Dijk, and Milos Kerkez in a makeshift defensive line.
Scanlon's Loan Move to Cardiff
Despite the defensive crisis, Liverpool have agreed to loan 20-year-old Calum Scanlon to Cardiff City until the end of the season. The young defender, who joined Liverpool from Birmingham City in February 2021 for £550,000, has made just two first-team appearances for the Reds.
Scanlon recently returned from a lengthy injury layoff with Liverpool's under-21 side and now heads to League One leaders Cardiff City for valuable game time and experience. The full-back previously spent time on loan with Millwall, and this latest move represents another step in his development pathway.
Slot's Pursuit of Geertruida
Liverpool are actively working to strengthen their defensive options before the transfer window closes, with manager Arne Slot targeting a reunion with former Feyenoord player Lutsharel Geertruida. The versatile defender, currently on loan at Sunderland from parent club RB Leipzig, previously served as vice-captain under Slot at Feyenoord.
Geertruida's tactical flexibility makes him particularly appealing to Liverpool, as he can operate effectively as a right-back, centre-back, or defensive midfielder. However, securing his services presents complications, as Sunderland paid Leipzig £2 million to sign Geertruida for the entire 2025/26 campaign, and the loan agreement reportedly lacks a break clause.
This situation means Liverpool may need to compensate Sunderland to facilitate the transfer. Geertruida has made 17 Premier League appearances for the Black Cats this season but might be receptive to a move given his established relationship with Slot.
Transfer Window Dynamics and Speculation
Liverpool's defensive recruitment efforts follow their failed attempt to sign Marc Guehi, who joined Manchester City earlier this month after a proposed move to Liverpool collapsed on deadline day in September. The club's lack of defensive depth has been a persistent concern throughout the current campaign.
Slot addressed transfer speculation following the Newcastle victory, stating: "I think we are trying to strengthen the squad and not trying to weaken it. But yeah, 48 hours to go. Let's see where the window ends up."
Meanwhile, rumors linking Curtis Jones with a potential move to Inter Milan have circulated, but Liverpool appear determined to retain their squad members during the winter window when replacement signings would be difficult to secure. Slot dismissed the speculation, emphasizing the supportive atmosphere created by Liverpool fans during matches.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Liverpool face the dual challenge of managing their defensive resources while pursuing strategic reinforcements that could strengthen their push for domestic and European success.
