Liverpool have been advised to launch an audacious January transfer raid on Premier League rivals Arsenal for defender Jurrien Timber. The call comes from former Reds player Stephen Warnock, who believes the Dutch international is the solution to a problematic position at Anfield.
Warnock's Bold Transfer Recommendation
Speaking to betting outlet Aceodds, ex-Liverpool left-back Stephen Warnock identified right-back as a critical area for reinforcement. He pointed to ongoing fitness concerns with current options Jeremie Frimpong, Joe Gomez, and Conor Bradley as a major issue for manager Arne Slot.
"All three are injury prone and they are not robust enough to play week in week out," Warnock stated. "Liverpool has to look at how reliable their players are to play every single week, and at the moment those players aren't fit enough for that."
Warnock was unequivocal in his praise for the Arsenal star, labelling him the standout performer in his position. "In an ideal world I would bring in Jurrien Timber, but I don't think Arsenal would allow that. I think he is the best right back in the league," he declared.
Timber's Form and Arsenal's Stance
The 24-year-old Dutchman has been a key figure for Mikel Arteta's side this season, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Primarily excelling at right-back, he has also filled in impressively at centre-back when required, showing no ill effects from the ACL injury that sidelined him previously.
Timber, who missed Arsenal's recent 2-1 victory over Brighton, is under contract at the Emirates Stadium until the summer of 2028. Reports indicate the North London club are already in discussions to extend his deal with improved terms, signalling their intent to keep him as a cornerstone of their defence.
Warnock highlighted Timber's specific qualities, stating, "Someone of that quality who is good in 1v1 situations. Since his ACL injury he has shown his robustness to come back."
Liverpool's Practical and Financial Hurdles
Despite the compelling argument, a January move for Timber appears fraught with difficulty. Liverpool invested heavily last summer, with a reported £450million spent, potentially limiting their capacity for further major expenditure in the upcoming window.
Manager Arne Slot remained typically guarded when questioned about transfer plans recently. "My only thoughts are on the upcoming two games," he said last week, focusing on the squad at his disposal.
Furthermore, the immediate need for a right-back may have diminished following Jeremie Frimpong's impressive assist in the 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Slot praised the former Bayer Leverkusen man's "pace" and "individual ability," suggesting he could be the internal solution if he maintains fitness.
The vacancy arose following Trent Alexander-Arnold's high-profile departure to Real Madrid last summer, a void Liverpool have struggled to fill consistently. Whether the club's hierarchy will heed Warnock's surprising advice and test Arsenal's resolve with a monumental offer for one of their prized assets remains one of the early January window's most intriguing potential storylines.
