Iraola personally driving Liverpool move to replace Kerkez with Barcelona youngster

Just days after coming from behind to beat Atletico Madrid in Andoni Iraola‘s first statement victory at Anfield, the expectation was that everything would finally come together for Liverpool against Fulham.

The Cottagers entered Anfield without a point to their name and with a disappointing defensive record after conceding six goals in three games. But that same struggling side looked in control for the entirety of the first-half and that same struggling backline kept Liverpool’s attacking riches at bay.

Once again, the Reds’ problems were as clear as ever. On paper, Iraola can boast that he is yet to taste defeat in five games as Liverpool manager. In reality, only two of those first five games have been victories and there’s work to do.

Most of the criticism during a tough start has been aimed at the fullbacks. Gone are the days of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson ruling the roost on both flanks, taking turns to become the assists kings. Arrived are the days of instant vulnerability down both sides.

At right-back, Ronald Araujo has quickly won his place ahead of the struggling Jeremie Frimpong despite the fact that his main position is at centre-back. That, in many ways, summarises the latter’s Liverpool career fairly accurately.

REUTERS/Phil Noble

On the left-hand side, although Milos Kerkez has been far from convincing, he’s proved to be a better option than Kostas Tsimikas, who was hooked in his first start of the season against Fulham on Saturday.

In the space of a few years, Liverpool’s biggest strength has become one of many glaring weaknesses. Something has to change when the January transfer window arrives.

Iraola pushing Liverpool to sign Balde

One solution could once again arrive courtesy of Barcelona. According to Sport in Spain, Iraola is pushing Liverpool to sign Alejandro Balde from the Catalan giants in January.

The left-back was high on Manchester United’s wishlist during the summer transfer window and although those at Old Trafford still have their sights set on his signature, Liverpool’s relationship with Barcelona could yet leave them in the driving seat.

The good news doesn’t end there, either. Even though Balde’s release clause reportedly sits at a whopping €1bn, his market value sits at a far cheaper €40m (£34m), which hands Liverpool the chance to land a huge discount.

REUTERS/Stefan Wermuth

It’s a move that would make sense for all parties. Liverpool need to solve their left-back problem and Balde desperately needs a fresh start just like Araujo has received at Anfield.

The 22-year-old defender has not played a single minute under Hansi Flick so far this season. If there was ever a sign that he’s not in the Barcelona manager’s plans, it is that.

When January arrives, Liverpool would be wise to ignite a transfer battle with Man United and push to sign Balde.