Despite Liverpool reaching an agreement in principle to sign Barcola, former Kop defender Stephen Warnock believes the club still needs to strengthen other areas.

Warnock has stated that Liverpool still need to sign a right-back and a midfielder following the Barcola deal.

Speaking about Liverpool's current squad situation, Warnock said: "I think they still need a right-back to compete for that position. Conor Bradley is still not fully fit. I feel that in the center-back position, they've probably got enough now, with Jarell Quansah and Araujo, and Ibrahima Konate will be back in a few months as well. He seems to be reintegrating into the team. But I still think you need a quality right-back."

"So I think they still need a few more players. I think Liverpool's midfield last year was a bit thin, even with four midfielders. With the number of matches they've played, the team clearly struggled at that time."

Warnock also said that so far, Arne Slot has impressed him, but he's concerned that the manager will struggle to maintain competitiveness across multiple competitions with a depleted squad. "From what I've seen so far, I like Slot's calmness and the way he handles matches. I don't think he'll deviate from his philosophy or change who he is."

"I think he's strong mentally, and when he steps into the dressing room, I don't think he'll be out of his depth at Liverpool. I think he has the mentality to deal with all of this."

"I think even signing on a short-term deal shows confidence in his abilities. It's not about looking at the long term, but rather he wants to establish authority in the team immediately."

"I think the way he speaks after matches, while it might sound clichéd, is exactly what Liverpool fans want to hear – he'll talk honestly about the team and the club's current situation."

"People will always worry that he won't succeed. When you manage Liverpool, you have to perform well every week. You have to make the players believe in your tactics and your approach."

"I think the best thing is that all the messages coming from Liverpool right now are very positive. The players are buying into what he's asking for and what he wants to achieve. I think the energy that's been missing around the club for a while has returned, and that's exactly what the team needs."

"I'm optimistic, I just think he needs more new signings. Don't underestimate him, that's the key. When you bring in a new manager, you should provide him with the tools he needs to succeed. Don't undersupport him and then suddenly say this person isn't up to the job. You've let a lot of experienced players leave, so now you have to back him."

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