Warnock Tells Iraola Right-Back Is Top Summer Priority

Warnock’s Transfer Advice to Iraola

Stephen Warnock has told Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola that his first demand for the summer should be a new right‑back. The former Reds defender made the comment after Iraola’s introductory press conference, where he highlighted the need for extra depth to cope with four competitions in 2026/27. Warnock described the position as the “absolute priority” for the club’s recruitment efforts this window. He also noted that the arrival of a centre‑back could be considered once Giovanni Leoni fully recovers from his ACL injury, but right‑back remains the top focus.

The current right‑back pool at Anfield is limited. Conor Bradley has missed the past six months with a serious knee injury, and Jeremie Frimpong, signed from Celtic, has struggled with fitness and been criticised for his performances. Meanwhile, left‑back options have changed with Andrew Robertson’s departure and Kostas Tsimikas now back in the squad. Warnock believes Iraola must be decisive in addressing this area.

Against this backdrop, a player like Jules Kounde emerges as a plausible target. The 27‑year‑old French international is currently linked with Barcelona and could be available for a reduced fee of £55 million. Kounde’s versatility allows him to fill centre‑back as well, giving Liverpool two positions with one signing. Adding him would free up resources for the other needs—likely a winger and a defensive midfielder.

Why Depth Matters for Four Competitions

Liverpool’s backline suffered from injury problems throughout last season, exposing the cost of relying on a small squad in a packed schedule. Iraola’s emphatic stance signals he will push the hierarchy to address these weaknesses before the September deadline. The club already reinforced its ranks with Victor Munoz and Jeremy Jacquet, but defensive cover remains a concern. Immediate action on the right‑back spot could prevent future crises across the domestic cups, Europa League, and any other competitions they pursue.

The urgency is heightened by the fact that the current options are either unavailable or unreliable. A fully fit, reliable right‑back would provide balance to the left‑back partnership and give the manager flexibility for rotations. With the squad spread thin across four competitions, no single positional shortfall can be ignored. Warnock’s blunt advice underscores how critical the right‑back market is for Liverpool’s ambitions this summer.

Potential Right‑Back Targets for Liverpool

• Jules Kounde – Barcelona’s French defender, capable of playing centre‑back; could be acquired for £55 m after recent reports suggest he is expendable.
• Conor Bradley – Currently sidelined, but a return would add depth if his recovery stays on track.
• Jeremie Frimpong – Despite early‑season criticism, a rejuvenated form could provide a low‑cost option if Liverpool are willing to work with him.

Each name brings its own set of challenges and opportunities, and the hierarchy will need to weigh injury risk, cost, and immediate availability. Liverpool’s pursuit of additional defensive depth will likely extend beyond the right‑back slot, but Warnock’s clear directive puts the position at the top of the agenda. As the window progresses, expect the club to act decisively to satisfy Iraola’s demand and keep the squad ready for a demanding campaign.