Before Liverpool’s opening Premier League game against Newcastle, I had a clear idea of what the Reds needed before the transfer window closed.
After watching the 2-2 draw at St James’ Park, I’ve changed my mind.
Liverpool showed character to come back twice, with Cody Gakpo equalising before Dominik Szoboszlai’s stoppage-time penalty rescued a point. But the performance exposed weaknesses that should influence the club’s remaining transfer business.
1. Liverpool need another winger
This is now my biggest priority.
Liverpool had plenty of possession, but their attack often lacked unpredictability. Alexander Isak was isolated, Florian Wirtz struggled to influence the game and Rio Ngumoha couldn’t get involved. Cody Gakpo again looked like Liverpool’s most dangerous attacker.
That’s why I understand the interest in Bradley Barcola. Liverpool need a winger who can beat defenders, stretch the pitch and create chances when opponents sit deep. Adding that profile could transform the attack and give Isak far more support.
2. I’m more concerned about the midfield than I was
Before Newcastle, I wasn’t particularly worried about Liverpool’s midfield. Now I am.
The issue is less about quality than balance. Liverpool looked very attacking, and Newcastle repeatedly found space in front of the defence when possession was lost.
I know Liverpool reportedly don’t believe they need a traditional Fabinho-style No.6 because Iraola wants the team to defend collectively. However, collective pressing still requires defensive security when attacks break down.
Newcastle exposed that weakness. Liverpool may not need a specialist No.6, but they do need another midfielder capable of giving the team greater balance.
3. The full-back situation worries me
Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez both struggled.
Frimpong looked uncomfortable in possession and was caught out for Newcastle’s second goal, while Kerkez was energetic but erratic and picked up an early yellow card.
Liverpool’s full-backs must provide width, support attacks and recover quickly when possession is lost. That balance wasn’t there at St James’ Park, and the alternatives do not appear to offer much depth.
I wouldn’t make another full-back the first signing, but the position deserves attention.
4. Do Liverpool need another striker?
This is lower down my list because I still believe in Alexander Isak.
He had a poor game, but one match should not define him. The lack of attacking support was the bigger issue, so I would rather invest in players who can create chances for him than immediately sign another striker.
Liverpool already have Isak, Gakpo and other options. What they lack is enough creativity from wide areas.
5. Squad depth has become a bigger concern
Liverpool are competing on four fronts: the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup.
The Newcastle game showed that when key players struggle, the bench may not be strong enough to change the match. Lewis Koumas looked lively, and Víctor Muñoz showed flashes of promise, but young players should not be expected to provide every solution.
Liverpool need more experienced quality throughout the squad.
And this is why I wouldn’t sell Gakpo
The Newcastle game also made me more reluctant to sell Cody Gakpo if Tottenham or Manchester City make an approach.
He was Liverpool’s best player, scored, looked dangerous and consistently threatened Newcastle. Liverpool need more players with those qualities, not fewer.
If Gakpo stays and the club adds another dynamic winger, the attacking options will look much stronger.
🧠 So what are my priorities now?
If Liverpool could make three more signings, my priorities would be:
A pacey, creative winger
Someone who can beat defenders and create chances for Isak.
A balanced midfielder
Not necessarily a traditional No.6, but someone who can provide greater defensive security.
Another versatile defender
Ideally, someone who can cover multiple positions and compete at full-back.
If Liverpool could make a fourth signing, I would add another experienced attacker, given the demands of a full season.
The Newcastle game was a warning
Liverpool should not panic after one draw, but they should learn from it.
They dominated possession and scored twice, yet Newcastle remained dangerous on the counter. Isak barely influenced the game, Wirtz struggled, the full-backs looked vulnerable and the midfield offered insufficient protection.
Those issues do not disappear because Szoboszlai scored a last-minute penalty.
Liverpool still have time to fix it
The transfer window is still open, and the club has time to address its weaknesses.
Before Newcastle, I thought Liverpool mainly needed to add quality to an already excellent squad. Now I think they need reinforcements in specific areas: a creative winger, greater midfield balance and more defensive depth.
The 2-2 draw wasn’t a disaster, but it was a warning Liverpool need to heed.
Jamie (The Kopite View)
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