Liverpool Transfer News: Reds' Hunt for Defense Is Crippled by Inigo Martinez

Inigo Martinez recently expressed his contentment with La Liga's Real Sociedad in an interview with talkSPORT. Until that statement, the outstanding centre-back was being courted by Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.

The Reds will be on the hunt for a staunch defender for the length of the transfer period. The club limped their way to an eighth-place finish in the English Premier League and fired manager Kenny Dalglish earlier this morning. 

Liverpool is looking to take their club in a new direction. That direction starts on the backside of their formation, with the defense. 

The Reds have very little depth behind Jon Flanagan, Jack Robinson and Jose Enrique. Their centre-backs have been somewhat consistent, but depth is still a concern. 

Let's take a look at what Martinez would have brought to the table and where Liverpool should turn for defensive help.

What Martinez Brings

Martinez is a 20-year-old left-footed defender with the propensity for shutting down the middle of the field. 

He scored three goals this season, but offense is not his strong suit or reason for being on the field. 

Martinez would not have added depth to Liverpool's ailing full-backs, but he would have provided punch up the middle. Daniel Agger and Martin Skrtel are solid defenders, but both faltered at key times this season. 

Martinez's youth and experience in La Liga would have added a different dimension to Liverpool's defensive unit. He is a strong tackler with good speed and awareness. 

He debuted last year for Real Sociedad. His inexperience can be questioned for now, but he has considerable upside as he learns the vital aspects of professional football. 

Where Does Liverpool Go From Here?

It was reported by footballpress.net in February that Liverpool had their eyes on Alvaro Dominguez. Dominguez is young, can play left- and centre-back and could come relatively cheap. 

The Reds could also chase Jorge Fucile this summer. They were rumored to chase Fucile last summer, but the move never came to fruition. Fucile can play either full-back spot, creating depth on either side.

Liverpool will pursue defenders as well as offensive players (possibly Fulham's Clint Dempsey) this transfer season. The Reds need help on all fronts and will take anyone capable of producing for their Anfield squad. 

Losing Martinez is a major blow to their hunt for defense. He is extremely talented, with his better years looming ahead of his young career. He is undoubtedly talented and would have bolstered any of the Premier League defenses.

Expect Liverpool's management to be extremely active in their pursuit for talented players to take the pitch in Anfield next season.

Missing on Martinez looks bad now, but it can go away with one key addition.