International tournament football is always one of the most exciting shop windows to peer through, but as Liverpool fans know, it really can be as random as playing the likes of PayPal bingo – it’s luck of the draw. El Hadji Diouf, anyone?
Even so, while a player can come out of nowhere to have an incredible tournament, only to find you’ll get the one, solitary number in a bingo draw rather than the full house, there has already been plenty of great talent we’d love to see at Anfield. But who are the stars of Euro 2020 that have taken our fancy?
Kalvin Phillips
Kalvin Phillips really showed what he can do on the world stage in the Groups, particularly in the Three Lions opening win over Croatia. There will no doubt be interest in the Leeds midfielder and we’ve already discussed how he could potentially thrive at Anfield.
Denzel Dumfries
Dumfries has been exceptional in the Netherlands opening games and his pace at wing-back perfectly fits into Jurgen Klopp’s system. Of course, he’d have to oust TAA, but competition in the area, particularly if Neco Williams leaves could prove healthy. Bayern Munich look keen on the PSV man, but the Premier League may also come calling.
Patrik Schick
The Czech striker was quiet against England but showed his worth in the opening two games to seal his nation a place in the Knockout Stages, most notably with a half way line effort that left Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall scrambling.
Pavel Nedved has always been a big believer in Schick’s ability and while he’s not been prolific at club level, given the opportunity he could really shine.
Manuel Locatelli
The Italians have been mightily impressive as a unit so far this summer and one of the key players within that has been 23-year-old Sassuolo midfielder, Manuel Locatelli. His stock has risen incredibly in a matter of weeks, scoring twice against the Swiss and being part of an enigmatic threesome alongside the defensive prowess of Jorginho and the energy of Nicolo Barella.
There are rumours Chelsea are interested, but they will have to be quick as Juventus are also primed and ready. He’d look great in a Liverpool shirt though.
Raphael Varane
For all France’s attacking qualities, Varane has really stood out at centre back, providing a stable platform for them to move forward. A partnership with Van Dijk would be fairytale stuff, particularly given the defensive struggles of last term. Real Madrid are unlikely to sell with Sergio Ramos leaving, while it’s Manchester United that are showing the most interest in him.
