Liverpool Sets Sights on Benjamin Pavard
As the mercury climbs and summer rears its head, Liverpool’s preparations for the forthcoming season are already well under way. No longer is the focus solely on midfield reinforcements, as rumours have it that the World Cup-winning defender, Benjamin Pavard, might find himself trading his Bayern jersey for a Liver Bird.
Confirming the speculation is Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Germany, a trusted authority on German football. His recent reports list Liverpool as a definite prospect for the versatile Pavard, whose contract with Bayern Munich is set to expire in a year.
The Four-Time Bundesliga Winner: A Mighty Asset
Pavard’s credentials are impressive. At just 27, he has already added four Bundesliga titles to his trophy cabinet. His adaptability and robust defence, both at centre-back and right-back, make him an enviable acquisition for any club.
Pavard has openly communicated his intention to part ways with Bayern this summer. This revelation has set the transfer rumour mill whirring, with the likes of Real Madrid, Barcelona, Man United, Man City and Inter all touted as possible landing spots.
News #Pavard: Bayern is also willing to sell him (next to #Hernández)! As they know that Pavard definitely wants to leave the club in summer.
➡️ It’s a question of the price now
➡️ First ideas about a potential swap deal + fee or €30-40m + bonus payments
➡️ His options… pic.twitter.com/lIDVAsh5jc— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) June 3, 2023
A Liverpool Deal: Worth £26 million?
With a price tag hovering around £26 million, Pavard’s move would certainly not break the bank. Considering his age, ability and the limited time remaining on his contract, it seems a fair deal. Yet, for the Merseyside outfit, the situation is a little more complex.
Liverpool’s well-respected manager, Jurgen Klopp, is known for his tactical nous. And his recent efforts suggest a shift in strategy, with an eye for a left-footed centre-back to balance his squad. In this light, the purchase of Pavard, a right-sided player, would hinge on other changes within the team.
Klopp’s Chess Board: Shuffling Reds Pieces
The Reds already have players like Joe Gomez and Joel Matip occupying the right side of the defence. If Pavard were to join, it could spark a domino effect, leading to one of these players making an exit. Given their recent injury records, such a move isn’t entirely outlandish.
Pavard’s robustness, coupled with his extensive experience, would be a notable upgrade over the injury-prone Gomez and Matip. It’s also worth noting that Liverpool’s new sporting director, Jorg Schmadtke, has a sound understanding of the German market, which could be instrumental in facilitating a smooth transition for the Frenchman.
Liverpool’s Priority: Left-Footed Centre-Back
However, the question remains: is Pavard the right fit for Liverpool at this time? The club’s current trajectory indicates a preference for left-sided defenders. Thus, it appears that this group would take priority over a player in Pavard’s mould.
Nevertheless, the situation is fluid, and it will be fascinating to see how the transfer landscape evolves as the window swings open. Benjamin Pavard may well be Liverpool bound, adding a touch of German precision and French flair to the already vibrant Merseyside ensemble.
