Paul Merson has urged Liverpool to take a lesson from Arsenal’s recent transfer approach, warning that failing to strengthen key areas could cost its grip on the Premier League title next season.
The former Arsenal and England midfielder pointed to how Mikel Arteta’s side narrowly missed out on silverware after falling short in depth. The Gunners have been hit with an injury crisis this season, losing key players such as Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus at various points during the campaign.
In January, Arsenal failed to further boost its squad failing to sign a striker which many believe has cost Arteta’s side the chance of silverware this season after exiting the Champions League midweek and now playing for a second place finish in the Premier League.
Merson believes Liverpool need to strengthen the squad in the summer to avoid making the same mistakes as Arsenal, singling out Harvey Elliott for his lack of impact when in the starting 11. “I expect some changes to happen at Liverpool this summer” said Merson.
“I look at someone like Harvey Elliott, who is excellent when he comes off the bench. But if he has to start a game, he rarely has the same impact. Liverpool could look to move on some players like that if they want to leave.
“I would keep them as squad players because we’ve seen Arsenal struggling without enough options this season. But it also depends on whether these players want to continue in limited roles.
(Image: 2025 Jacques Feeney/Offside)
The Gunners are set to make their first signing of the summer transfer window, reportedly agreeing personal terms for Spanish midfielder Martin Zubimendi.
Despite Liverpool’s strong pursuit in 2024, Zubimendi made it clear he wasn’t ready to part ways with Real Sociedad. His loyalty to his boyhood club played a significant role, having just helped them secure Champions League qualification.
It’s shaping up to be a busy summer at Anfield, as sporting director Richard Hughes and Arne Slot prepare to reshape the Liverpool squad left behind by Jurgen Klopp.
Learn more
One piece of business is already done: highly rated Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili will officially join the Reds on July 1 after a £29 million ($38.5m) deal was agreed last August.
The 23-year-old Georgian remained with the Spanish club for the 2024/25 season but is set to arrive as part of Liverpool’s long-term planning.
Liverpool are also actively exploring options for a new left-back, with competition and cover needed to strengthen depth in that area. The club could also be in the market for a new right-back with the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold as well as looking to strengthen its attack.
