Richard Hughes might be quick to make a call after the events that unfolded in the 77th minute at Anfield.

Liverpool climbed to the top of the Premier League on Sunday with a commanding win over Arsenal, though the victory may have come at a cost.

Dominik Szoboszlai’s stunning free kick sealed the result and sent Anfield into celebration, but manager Arne Slot now has two major injury concerns to address in the aftermath.

Injury setbacks for Liverpool in Arsenal clash

In the 77th minute—just before Szoboszlai’s goal—Ibrahima Konaté went down and needed treatment before limping off the field. Joe Gomez came on to finish the match in his place.

Later, just before stoppage time (which lasted eight minutes), Florian Wirtz also required medical attention. He appeared to clutch his right thigh and looked dejected as he left the pitch.

Liverpool may be active in the final hours of the transfer window

Losing key players so early in the season is far from ideal—especially when one is a record signing like Wirtz. Fortunately, Slot has several options to fill the number 10 role if Wirtz is ruled out for upcoming fixtures.

Konaté’s injury is more concerning, as it leaves Liverpool with only three senior centre-backs available—one of whom, Giovanni Leoni, has yet to make his debut. That situation could prompt sporting director Richard Hughes to take swift action as the transfer window closes.

Liverpool had already seen a £35 million bid rejected for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. With Konaté now sidelined, Palace may hike up their asking price, knowing Liverpool’s need has become more urgent.

FSG typically avoid last-minute panic buys, but Slot may be quietly urging the club’s leadership not to leave him short in central defense—especially with a more demanding fixture list approaching this autumn.

Hopefully, Konaté and Wirtz won’t be out for long, and there’s still a chance Hughes can finalize a deal for Guehi, who is in action tonight against Aston Villa, before the transfer deadline at 7pm tomorrow.

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