The following names have been floating around Anfield for over a year as the Merseyside giants continually look to create a changed defensive structure that can responsibly utilize the game-changing talents of the club’s vice-captain, Trent Alexander Arnold.

The premise was to push the Reds’ superstar right-back into midfield when dominance on the ball was evident in certain encounters. Unfortunately, this initiative was implemented before a more aggressive and defensive-minded left-back was recruited (last season), thus overloading the centre-back duo playing that day. This arrogant endeavour certainly made for some entertaining games; however, the uncoordinated attacking style was always in danger of failing.

Failure to sign either Levi Colwill or Piero Hincapié last summer has come back to haunt the Reds as they challenge for the title in 2023/24. As the season progressed, early goals were conceded and opposition counter-attacks prevented the European heavyweights from reaching their highest ambitions, with the open nature of Jürgen Klopp’s tactics often leading to a back two without a specialist defensive midfielder. I hope that defensive destroyer is sought out and signed before the transfer window closes this summer, while the need for a left-back is almost as pressing.

In order to create a structure that both supports the attack and protects Alisson Becker, the right-sided hybrid initiative from 2023/24 should be developed into a left-sided one for the 2024/25 attack. At Manchester City, I have long admired the performances of Nathan Aké, who has excelled as a left-sided defender.

A hybrid that allows him to adapt to his left-back status and form a back three (without the ball), he provided cover and security when one of the back four strayed. This more defensive option was desired last season (by Liverpool), which is probably why Joe Gomez was the Reds’ best left-back last season.

While I greatly admire the career of legendary Scot Andy Robertson at Anfield, his orthodox style is simply not suited to Arne Slot’s company. Robertson’s desire to charge forward and send crosses into the box was the rock’n’roll ingredient that was much appreciated for several years.

What has emerged is the all too common low block tactic used by so many opponents, meaning the balance of play has adjusted and therefore a more measured and incisive approach is being developed. The requirement to cover all zones requires a hybrid left-back who can help the team defend stunning counterattacks against the overstretched Liverpool backline.

Signing the Bayer Leverkusen star would be a sensational catch. At just 22 years old, the 1.85m defender is a fearless defender who can play both in central defence and at left back. An elite level defender with good qualities on the ball, he would bring a calming and more physical performance than the Scottish international Robbo currently does.

I’m sceptical that the 37-times capped Ecuadorian is the absolute target, although the fact that his name has come to the fore again this week is a good sign. The next ten days are crucial in determining how new Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is perceived by an expectant and frustrated fanbase. The first team needs two starting line-up quality additions and if Independiente del Valle Academy graduate Piero Hincapié is unveiled as the new hybrid left-back, it would be an exceptional improvement.