Liverpool Transfer News: Reds Cannot Afford to Lose Defender Martin Skrtel

Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is reportedly ready to hand the club's management a transfer request after another disappointing season on Merseyside.

Per the Mirror:

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Liverpool defender Martin Skrtel is set to stun Anfield chiefs by asking for a transfer this summer, according to a report.

The Slovakia international, 27, is said to be frustrated by the club's continuing failure to qualify for the Champions League, and is ready to move to a team that will allow him to play in Europe's top competition.

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One part of the Reds team that wasn't poor this season was their back four. Liverpool had the third-best defensive record in the Premier League this season, and Skrtel's performances were a big part of that success.

He was arguably the club's most consistent player this season, and in addition to his defending, he was also a threat on set pieces with his strong skills in the air.

The Reds cannot afford to let Skrtel leave and must do everything they can to convince him that their will be more trophies in the future.

Skrtel and Daniel Agger were one of the best center back tandems in England this season and complimented each other very well.

If Skrtel left Anfield in the summer transfer window, veteran defender Jamie Carragher would have to step in as a starter if no purchases are made to replace Skrtel.

At Carragher's age, he cannot be expected to stop the best Premier League strikers on a consistent basis.

Skrtel is very important to Liverpool's success, and if he leaves the club this summer, the new ownership group will have to make a major purchase to replace him in the center of the defense.

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