Ederson Links Revisited as Liverpool Search for Midfield Answers

Liverpool’s slide from champions last season to a side struggling for rhythm has been one of the Premier League’s most puzzling storylines. Arne Slot delivered the title in his debut campaign, yet the follow up has been marked by frailty in midfield and a worrying lack of control. With January approaching and reports that Atalanta’s Ederson could be available for around £26m, the market conversation has sharpened. Thanks to David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, we have a clearer sense of how the situation is viewed inside Anfield.

Midfield Concerns Exposed

This season has highlighted Liverpool’s shortcomings. Without a natural defensive midfielder capable of screening the back line and dictating tempo, the team have often been overrun. Opponents have played through the centre far too easily, which has placed unnecessary stress on a defence already coping with form dips and injuries. Slot wants energy, structure and bravery in possession, but his current options have not consistently provided those ingredients.

It is in this context that Ederson’s name has resurfaced. His ball recovery numbers in Serie A, along with his capacity to shuffle wide and plug gaps, have long made him an intriguing candidate. Yet uncertainty surrounds Liverpool’s resolve. Lynch offered a blunt assessment when speaking to Anfield Index.
“I’d be really surprised because he has been linked for so long and every time you speak to someone at Anfield about it, they never give any real encouragement.”

Ederson’s Profile and Timing

The Brazilian midfielder turns 28 next year, and while his experience is attractive, the sense from Lynch is that this is not a new opportunity.
“Liverpool could’ve done this a while ago. He may be more attractive now because of his contract situation, but he is 27 now.”

It raises a fair question. If Liverpool had genuine intent, why wait until now, particularly when the squad’s imbalance has been clear for months? The fee does not appear prohibitive, and Atalanta have shown willingness to move players at the right price.

Instead, the hesitation hints at wider strategic doubts. Slot and the recruitment team prioritise players who offer long term growth as well as immediate impact. Ederson provides maturity and tactical intelligence, but the lack of pace in his game and his age profile may count against him compared to younger, more dynamic alternatives on the radar.

January Decision Ahead

Still, the debate is sharpened by Liverpool’s on pitch reality. Performances have been so poor that action in January feels essential. Whether Ederson becomes that solution remains doubtful. Lynch summed up the prevailing internal view with notable clarity.
“If Liverpool really fancied it, then they could’ve done it ages ago.”

Supporters will hope the club act decisively because a stabilising midfielder could transform the second half of the season. Slot’s ideas work when the team can compress space, counter press with conviction and recycle possession with authority. Without a defensive anchor, that blueprint falters. January offers a rare chance to correct course.