Liverpool Transfer Rumors: New Signings and Analysing the Midfield 'Problem'

I've said it before and I'll say it again, Liverpool has had an incredibly busy summer, especially when you look at this summer in comparison to the last two or three. Kenny Dalglish brought in four new players—three of which are midfielders—and the other, a reserve goalkeeper.

If you had asked me what area of the squad needed strengthening this summer, I'd have opted for the defence, then the attack and then the midfield. 

Therefore, I am confused. Why have three midfielders been signed, but no defenders or back up strikers?

It is always plausible that Kenny Dalglish is looking to give more academy players a chance after being encouraged by the excellent displays made by Kelly and Flanagan last season. Personally, I would love to see Raheem Sterling given a chance to impress next season. But some new blood in defence wouldn't harm the side, so I look forward to any other dealings.

The players already signed are: Stuart Downing, Charlie Adam and Jordan Henderson. Each one of these players has potential and are definitely valuable to any club they play for. However, Liverpool's midfield is already crowded and one can't help but wonder where these three will fit in.

In my opinion, Steven Gerrard should still be considered first choice on the midfield list. Lucas Leiva—who has improved beyond belief—shouldn't be ruled out. Raul Meireles and Jay Spearing were also brilliant last season and both have a claim for regular football. Alberto Aquilani, Jonjo Spearing, Christian Poulsen and Joe Cole make up the waiting list.

So what, if anything, do the three no recruitment's bring to a Liverpool side with a European goal?

First, Stuart Downing. The versatile winger was brought in to provide ammunition for the new front men and he's definitely capable of that task.

The advantage for Downing concerning is that no one else seems to fit the bill of winger more naturally. Gerrard has been shunted out before, but he has been vocal in his opinion that he should be played centrally. Meireles too, is a similar story. Joe Cole has been given chances, but needs to impress quickly to become a threat. Downing's place on the team appears to be guaranteed.

Then, Charlie Adam. The midfielder was crucial to the Blackpool relegation fight, which unfortunately (and I mean that) was in vain. The Scott reminds me of Xabi Alonso, a pass master with the ability to alter the tempo at will. However, as I mentioned before, he faces competition.

Gerrard and Lucas should both play, so Meireles and Adam may be left to fight it out for the last place—assuming a 4-3-3 formation. It's also possible that Adam replaces Lucas as a defensive midfielder. Charlie Adam will be a success at Anfield, it's just a question of time and what other players comes into the picture.

Then there's Jordan Henderson. I have that nagging feeling that he'll be either a reserve player or loaned out to another club along with the likes of Alberto Aquilani, Jonjo Shelvey and Jay Spearing. They will all accumulate valuable experience, which could lead them to become Anfield legends in the future.

With Liverpool looking to Shane Long as a backup striker, things are looking up.

Sign that elusive midfielder, and then we'll really be a force to be reckoned with.