Ex-Liverpool defender Steve Nicol has insisted that his former club must sign an experienced holding midfielder if they are to challenge for honours this season.

The Reds have been locked in talks with Southampton to buy Romeo Lavia but Nicol fears that signing the 19-year-old won’t be enough if the Merseysiders want to win trophies:

“This is a potential player we are talking about. If Liverpool want to be pushing anybody for the Premier League title, the Champions League or any of the big prizes. They need somebody who is going to be playing now and who is going to do the job. They can’t wait on a Lavia getting better or hoping that Curtis Jones can fill in. That doesn’t get you Premier League or Champions League titles. So, it’s a big problem right now.”

A lot of fans have the same misgivings as Nicol regarding Lavia. He is undoubtedly a player with massive potential, which is demonstrated by the fact that the likes of Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are also pursuing his signature.

However, it is a big ask for the teenager to come in straight away and perform to a level that will help Liverpool become title contenders again. Replacing Fabinho (who has bags of experience and won multiple trophies) is difficult to do, and it may be the case that the Reds’ recruitment team have opted for a young player as they don’t feel there are better options out there.

Liverpool could be in for another ‘transition season’

If Lavia is brought in for £50m before the transfer deadline, without any further additions, it does suggest that the club are building a squad with the long-term future in mind. There isn’t anything inherently wrong in doing that, but it does sacrifice short-term ambitions.

To compete for the Premier League this campaign, an older midfielder, with experience in the number 6 position, has to be recruited.