Liverpool’s January transfer window may have closed without fireworks on the pitch, but a quiet piece of off-field business has now come to light following confirmation from Belgium.

KV Mechelen have revealed that former defender Laurens Paulussen has taken up a new role with Liverpool, joining the club’s scouting department with responsibility for Belgium and the Netherlands. The announcement was made via the Belgian club’s official social media channels, describing it as their final piece of winter-window business.

While the move won’t have an immediate impact on matchday squads, it adds another layer to Liverpool’s behind-the-scenes evolution under Arne Slot.

Liverpool continue fine-tuning operations under Arne Slot

Paulussen’s arrival appears to be part of a broader pattern at Anfield, where changes have been subtle rather than dramatic since Slot took charge.

The Dutch coach has already implemented small but meaningful adjustments both on the training ground and within the club’s internal structure. Rather than a full-scale overhaul, Liverpool seem focused on refining key areas.

One notable example came in December, when Aaron Briggs was removed from his role as set-piece coach. That decision initially sparked debate, but performances since then suggest it has paid off.

Liverpool have shown clear improvement in defending dead-ball situations, even managing a run of six matches without conceding from a set piece — a stark contrast to earlier struggles this season.

Against that backdrop, expanding scouting coverage in the Benelux region feels like another calculated step aimed at marginal gains rather than short-term reactions.

Who is Laurens Paulussen — and why this region matters

Paulussen, now 35, enjoyed a respectable playing career in Belgium, making over 260 senior appearances across the domestic game.

He featured for clubs including Waasland-Beveren, KV Mechelen and Westerlo, primarily operating as a right-back or wide midfielder. His experience spans both the Jupiler Pro League and the Challenger Pro League, giving him strong familiarity with the Belgian football landscape.

While his playing career may not attract headlines, that is rarely a requirement for success in scouting. Liverpool’s recruitment strategy has long emphasised local expertise, strong networks and league-specific knowledge over big names.

Belgium — especially when paired with the Netherlands — continues to be a valuable talent pool. With Slot’s Dutch influence and several senior figures already connected to the region, Liverpool’s decision to place a dedicated scout there underlines their intent to stay ahead of emerging prospects.

Quiet moves, long-term thinking

This may not have been a transfer window filled with marquee signings for Liverpool, but developments like this suggest a clear long-term vision remains in place.

Rather than making noise, the club continue to adjust structures and processes behind the scenes — steadily supporting Slot with incremental improvements that could pay dividends in the future.

Sometimes, the most important moves are the ones that barely make the headlines 👀🔴