Liverpool icon Graeme Souness believes that the reason Liverpool failed to win the Premier League is staring them in the face, and most of us would agree. Although the Reds scored 101 goals this season in the league, they also conceded 50, which 23 more than Chelsea, and 13 more than eventual winners Manchester City. Souness says that the defence is the obvious weak link, so here are three defenders who Liverpool should move for to beef up their backline.
1) Kyriakos Papadopoulos – Schalke
The powerful Greek centre-back missed most of the season just gone because of an injury, but prior to that he had established himself as one of the most promising young defenders in Europe.
Still only 22, the Greece international has made over 100 club appearances during his career and has 16 caps for his country.
He is a natural leader and is extremely hard to beat, whether that be on the floor or in the air.
2) Eliaquim Mangala – Porto
Mangala is a 23-year-old centre-half who is also relatively experienced, having played almost 200 games for the two clubs he has represented – Standard Liege and current club Porto.
He is a complete powerhouse, which fits in with Rodgers’ blueprint, and is comfortable with playing out from the back.
3) Steven Caulker – Cardiff
When Caulker switched to Cardiff from Tottenham there were a few eyebrows raised. Although the Bluebirds were relegated he stood out individually, and is a young England international.
The 22-year-old played all 38 league games for the Welsh outfit this season, making 327 clearances, 59 blocks and 44 tackles.