Klopp: This is why Liverpool won't be signing a new defender

Jurgen Klopp says the reason Liverpool haven’t signed a defender this summer is due to Joe Gomez’s return to fitness.

The Reds have splashed the cash this summer, signing winger Xherdan Shaqiri for £13.5m and wrapping up big-money moves for goalkeeper Alisson, and midfield duo Fabinho and Naby Keita.

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However, after leaking 38 goals in their last campaign many pundits expected Klopp to move for a new central defender to shore up his backline. But Klopp is happy to give youth a chance.

The 21-year-old Gomez impressed last term before undergoing ankle surgery that forced him out of the Champions League final and World Cup as Trent Alexander-Arnold nailed down the right-back spot.

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Gomez has also been used in central defence in pre-season as Klopp weighs up his options.

When asked if Liverpool planned on signing a defender, the Reds’ boss backed Gomez to make an impact this season.

“I’m happy with our players to be honest. I don’t see the need [to sign a defender].

“Joe Gomez brings a lot of things that we don’t find on the transfer market to be honest.”

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Gomez played 45 minutes in Liverpool’s 4-1 demolition of Manchester United in Michigan today.

With Dejan Lovren still on a post-World Cup break and Joel Matip at home nursing an injury, the youngster could be handed a chance to stake his place alongside back Virgil van Dijk when Liverpool kick off their Premier League campaign against West Ham on August 12.