Aldridge Urges Liverpool to Repeat Fabinho Blueprint in Search for Defensive Midfielder

Liverpool’s summer transfer plans are already under intense scrutiny after a disappointing 2025/26 campaign, and one former Reds favourite believes the club’s priorities are pointing in the wrong direction.

While much of the discussion has centred on strengthening the forward line, John Aldridge has made a compelling case that Liverpool’s biggest need is elsewhere. Speaking to the Liverpool Echo, the former striker argued that securing a specialist defensive midfielder should be the club’s primary objective before addressing any other position.

His comments arrive at a pivotal moment for Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes as they prepare for a transfer window that could shape Liverpool’s next era.

Fabinho Example Still Resonates at Liverpool

Liverpool supporters do not need reminding of the transformative effect Fabinho had on the side following his arrival in 2018. The Brazilian’s presence at the base of midfield brought balance, defensive security and tactical discipline to a team that was already rich in attacking talent.

According to Aldridge, Liverpool should be looking to recreate that formula.

He said: “For me, the priority simply has to be a holding midfielder. I know that might not fit into Arne Slot’s overall vision of wanting progressive players in the centre of the park, but we need someone who is going to protect the back four.

“Liverpool have almost always had one such player in their team. Don’t forget, it was the signing of Fabinho in 2018 that turned us from challengers to champions.

“The back four was left exposed far too often over the season with the midfield simply much too open. Ryan Gravenberch is a good player but we’ve seen over the last 12 to 18 months that he isn’t a number six, and having one in the team would release him further upfield.”

Those observations reflect concerns that became increasingly visible throughout last season. Liverpool often looked vulnerable during transitions, with opponents finding space between midfield and defence far too easily.

A dominant defensive midfielder would not only strengthen the structure of the side but could also allow Liverpool’s more creative players to operate with greater freedom.

Gravenberch Could Thrive in Advanced Role

A key part of Aldridge’s argument centres on Ryan Gravenberch and the role he has been asked to perform.

The Dutch midfielder has shown quality on the ball, carrying possession through midfield and linking play effectively. However, the demands of operating as Liverpool’s deepest midfielder have sometimes limited his strengths.

Rather than sitting in front of the defence, Gravenberch appears naturally suited to a more dynamic box-to-box role where his athleticism and technical ability can have a greater impact higher up the pitch.

That view has been echoed by another Liverpool legend, Steven Gerrard, who previously revealed a conversation he had with the midfielder regarding his best position.

Gerrard said: “I remember speaking to [him], did an interview with Ryan and I said, ‘Mate, you’re an eight. You’re a box-to-box midfield player.’”

The assessment aligns closely with Aldridge’s thinking. Both men see Gravenberch as a player who would benefit from having an established defensive midfielder behind him.

Defensive Midfielder Debate Shapes Summer Strategy

Modern football increasingly demands versatility from midfielders, yet the importance of a genuine holding player remains difficult to ignore.

Liverpool’s greatest successes under Jürgen Klopp were built upon a midfield structure that provided protection as well as creativity. Fabinho’s role was often understated, but his ability to shield the defence allowed attacking players to flourish.

Finding a player capable of performing a similar function is unlikely to be straightforward. Elite defensive midfielders are among the most sought-after assets in European football, and competition for the best candidates will be fierce.

Nevertheless, Aldridge’s argument carries weight. Liverpool possess attacking quality throughout the squad, but their balance remains open to question.

Summer Window Offers Chance to Rebuild Foundation

As preparations continue for the transfer market, Liverpool face important decisions about where resources should be invested.

Recruiting another forward may strengthen the squad’s depth, but addressing structural weaknesses could ultimately deliver a greater return. The lessons from Fabinho’s arrival remain relevant eight years on.

Liverpool transformed from contenders into champions after securing the right defensive midfielder. Aldridge believes history can repeat itself if the club follows a similar path this summer.

Whether Hughes and Slot share that view remains to be seen, but the message from one of Liverpool’s most respected former players is clear. Before anything else, Liverpool need a defensive midfielder capable of restoring balance, protecting the back line and unlocking the full potential of players such as Gravenberch.