Why Have Liverpool Not Made a Signing This Summer?

Liverpool fans are eager for the first signing of the Arne Slot era, over 40 days after the transfer window opened. The Merseysiders remain the only one of ‘Big Six’ Premier League clubs without any new permanent additions this summer. Do we think they will fall far behind their EPL rivals? Or can Reds’ fans rest assured that they will see shiny, new Liverpool signings and still compete for honours?

Liverpool’s Recruitment Strategy

Liverpool’s current approach is unusual, especially after a managerial change. The last time the club went this long without new signings was in 2019, after their Champions League win.

Despite no new additions until late July that year, they still went on to win the Premier League the following season, highlighting that “winning the transfer window” doesn’t always translate to on-field success.

Reasons for the Delay

Slot prioritised assessing the current squad before making new signings. New sporting director Richard Hughes also mentioned the impact of the recent European Championship and Copa America on transfer timings, predicting a busier August.

Liverpool also doesn’t face significant gaps needing immediate attention. Injuries to Joel Matip and Thiago last season saw them already replaced internally by players like Jarell Quansah and Vitezslav Jaros.

The focus this summer could be on securing an elite holding midfielder, another centre-back, and a wide attacker, though Slot is keen on developing academy talent.

Comparisons with Rivals

Liverpool’s rivals have been active in the market. Manchester City, Arsenal, Aston Villa, Manchester United, Tottenham, and Chelsea have all made notable signings. However, quick integration of these new players remains uncertain, especially since injuries can always slow that process down, as it will likely be the case with United’s Leny Yoro.

Financial Position and Sustainability

Liverpool is financially stable under the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR). Despite no Champions League football last season, the club’s commercial revenue rose significantly, ensuring compliance with PSR, mainly thanks to the full opening of the newly renovated Anfield Road stand.

The club’s wage bill to income ratio is also healthy, and recent high-earning player departures have reduced expenses significantly.

FSG’s Market Approach

FSG aims to run Liverpool sustainably, avoiding risky expenditures. Last season’s dip was due to injuries and player rhythm issues, not squad quality. Slot and Hughes are cautious but optimistic about the squad’s potential, relying on internal talent development.

Upcoming Transfer Activity

Expect signings before the window closes on August 30. Liverpool’s strategy focuses on fine-tuning rather than rebuilding. Slot, despite being new, is confident in the current squad’s quality and potential for improvement.

Conclusion

While the wait for a major signing continues, Liverpool’s approach emphasises sustainability and careful assessment over hasty purchases. Judging this transfer window should wait until it closes at the end of August. However, the longer the wait goes on, the bigger the gap might be this season between Liverpool and the title race.