Klopp casts doubt on January defensive signings

Jurgen Klopp is not convinced Liverpool will need to scour the market for new defensive players next month, given its recent form.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has played down the prospect of new defenders joining the club in the January transfer window.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has played down the prospect of new defenders joining the club in the January transfer window.

The Reds failed in their attempts to sign Virgil van Dijk from Southampton in the previous window and the strength in depth of their defence has often been scrutinised in the months that have followed.

Change of fortunes

However, they have shown a more resolute side since a 4-1 defeat to Tottenham in October, conceding just one goal from open play in their nine Premier League matches following that Wembley thrashing.

The defensive improvement means Klopp could consider putting off transfer plans until the end of the season.

"Everything we are doing has influence on our plans," he said, ahead of Friday's trip to Arsenal. "That's all I can say about that.

"When we win a game and when we defend well, then I'm happy about it. If we defend not that good as a team, then I'm not happy about it, but I don't then think the solution is a new player always.

"It's really rare that I read. But, for example, Alberto Moreno did fantastic this season and then we played at Sevilla and he played not well. People didn't hesitate to say: 'That's why we need a new left-back'. And I think: 'Wow'.

Injury concern ahead of Arsenal clash

"But thank God, I – or we – here make the decisions and nobody else. We are not relaxed, but we have a view on everything and it needs to fit together and everything needs to work out in the end and you need to have solutions for different situations, systems and all that stuff. 

"So far, it's okay, but it could have been better, and it could have been much worse. Now, we prepare for Arsenal and we have to be really, really strong in that game, otherwise we don't have a chance."

Klopp could be facing defensive worries at the Emirates Stadium, though, with full-back Moreno still sidelined with an ankle injury and Joel Matip still short of full fitness.

"Joel Matip was back in training yesterday [Tuesday]," Klopp said of the centre-back, who has missed Liverpool's last four league matches.

"I'm not sure if he's ready for Arsenal, but for the games coming up, pretty sure. That's it, I think.

"Unfortunately, Moreno is still not even on the pitch so that could still take a few weeks."