Blow as Liverpool call quits on bombshell deal; will focus elsewhere

Liverpool have reportedly called it quits on a major transfer this summer. It's a real blow, as far as we see it.

Liverpool aren't just looking at wingers this summer. There's a definite need to invest at the back, too, after a series of disappointments.

Andy Robertson and Ibrahima Konate left on free transfers, while Conor Bradley is out long-term with an injury. The Reds haven't actually signed anyone after those exits, leaving them remarkably light.

The full-back one is particularly notable as Liverpool are undoubtedly light. Kostas Tsimikas, a player they tried to offload a year ago, is back to cover Milos Kerkez on the left but Jeremie Frimpong is the only recognised right-back in the squad.

And it is incredibly debatable whether he's actually recognised as a right-back.

Anfield Watch exclusively revealed last month that Djed Spence was being lined up as an option. Spence can play on both sides and, because of Robertson's arrival at Tottenham Hotspur, is up for grabs as they try to fund transfers.

Further reports broke saying similar this week but it's now claimed by Ben Jacobs that Liverpool are not working on a deal for Spence any more. They're focusing on other targets.

That's a blow, really. Spence is notable for operating on both flanks while also ticking a homegrown box, all for an affordable price. Liverpool desperately need players who can cover at full-back, players to fill the homegrown quota, and to save money for big signings on their wings.

Spence, then, made an awful lot of sense and there was every chance we'd look back on this summer and say he was the smartest signing of the lot. Instead, Liverpool will make moves elsewhere.

We think they'll come to regret that. The Spence deal really feels like a sensible one, even if he would just be a useful squad player. Those utility players can make all the difference.