Liverpool may have found an unexpected £60 million right-back option who could be deployed against Newcastle United next week. With injuries and fitness concerns stacking up, manager Arne Slot might be forced into a bold reshuffle that puts a marquee signing in a completely new role.
The player has already proven his ability to perform to a very high standard, and with current squad problems unresolved, he might get the chance to showcase his versatility in a makeshift backline.
Squad under pressure before deadline day
With just under two weeks left before the transfer window closes, Liverpool are still eyeing further additions. Until then, Slot is adapting with what he has, especially in defence.
Conor Bradley is sidelined after a pre-season injury, while Jeremie Frimpong is battling fatigue and hamstring tightness after making 20 high-intensity sprints against Bournemouth. That leaves Liverpool searching for a dynamic alternative at right-back.
Szoboszlai – Liverpool’s unexpected weapon
The standout candidate? Dominik Szoboszlai.
Since the arrival of Florian Wirtz, Szoboszlai has lost his spot as Liverpool’s first-choice No.10. Yet, his versatility has made him one of the team’s most prized assets. For Hungary, he often plays as a forward. At Liverpool, he has featured as a central midfielder, defensive midfielder, and now potentially as a right-back option.
Bradley’s absence was expected, but Frimpong’s knock complicates matters. With Ryan Gravenberch likely to return against Newcastle, and Alexis Mac Allister taking his spot in midfield, Szoboszlai could be shifted to the defensive line. It’s not ideal, but similar to how Moises Caicedo covered right-back at Chelsea last season, it might be a short-term fix.
Alternatives on the table
Liverpool spent £60m on Szoboszlai two years ago, and many feel he should be used wherever needed rather than sitting on the bench.
Joe Gomez could also step in, but with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté needing cover, Gomez is likely to be prioritised for the centre-back role. New signing Giovanni Leoni is still adjusting to Slot’s system, while potential target Marc Guehi has yet to join the club.
That leaves Slot juggling creative solutions until the Newcastle clash on Monday. Frimpong could recover in time, but if not, Liverpool’s £60m midfield star may be lining up at right-back—a tactical gamble that could prove decisive.
