Liverpool are reported to be following the progress of two young left-backs with the hopes of bringing one of them to Anfield as cover for Andy Robertson before next season.
James Milner, 34, is Liverpool’s left-back replacement when Andy Robertson is unavailable or rested for a game. Milner, the ultimate professional, is a central midfielder who is past his best, especially when it comes to deputising in a position that requires a certain amount of pace to deal with young wingers.
From the academy, Adam Lewis and Yasser Larouci can provide some respite for Robertson but the drop in standard is, understandably, significant. Also, Larouci has decided not to extend his LFC contract, opting instead to move for more first-team opportunities next season. Lewis has signed a new long-term deal but the 20-year-old is expected to head out on loan to a Championship club next season.
According to Neil Jones’ piece for Goal, The Reds are apparently in the market for a back-up left-back. Norwich’s Jamal Lewis and Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly are of particular interest to Michael Edwards and his scouting department.
Jones’ article states that:
Jamal Lewis of Norwich City is well thought of, and should be available following the Canaries’ relegation, while Lloyd Kelly was flagged up by the Reds’ scouting team prior to his move to Bournemouth last summer.
Kelly, the England U21 international, represents an interesting option given he can play at centre-back too.
Could that be the kind of “creative” solution Klopp was talking about? The Reds are likely to lose Dejan Lovren in the coming months, with Zenit St Petersburg leading the chase for the Croatia international, which would leave them light on senior options in the centre of defence too. A versatile signing would do no harm there.
There’s no doubt that Liverpool need cover for Robertson. The Scotland captain has played the lion’s share of LFC’s games over the last two and a half years.
Lewis looks to be a terrific prospect and with Norwich relegated he may be available for a cut-price deal. Kelly, with his added ability to also play through the centre, could be the smarter signing. Bournemouth are likely to be playing Championship football next season too, meaning Kelly’s price may also drop during the transfer window.
Watch this space as The Reds are likely to strengthen in this department and it will most likely be a young option like Lewis or Kelly. Imagine the level either player could reach after being coached by Jürgen Klopp and his backroom team.
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