A Closer Look at Liverpool’s Transfer Prospects As Window Opens
As Liverpool celebrated their first summer signing, Alexis Mac Allister, the rumour mill had already started churning about the next addition. From Khephren Thuram of Nice to Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, the Merseyside club is touted to be in the market for another midfielder, especially after the squad’s midfield depth took a hit with the exit of stalwarts such as James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Liverpool reporter for The Athletic James Pearce has shared his insights this morning on what Reds fans should expect from the transfer window, which officially opened today.
Liverpool’s Midfield Conundrum
Under the helm of newly-appointed sporting director Jorg Schmadtke, Liverpool is steering through a decisive phase. The arrival of Mac Allister marked the end of an era with Julian Ward, making the next course of action rather intriguing.
Not being in a hurry, Liverpool are carefully assessing their options. The club has been engaged in dialogue with various agents and clubs across Europe, but their next move remains unclear. The decision-making process is a balance between available options and maximising resources.
Transfer Market Dynamics
Klopp’s preference would be to seal all his transfer dealings by July 8, when pre-season training kicks off. However, he’s fully aware that international fixtures and other events, such as the Under-21 European Championship, may slow things down.
The midfield contenders – Thuram, Manu Kone, Gabri Veiga, Ryan Gravenberch, and Lavia – are certainly options. But he final list of prospective signings isn’t set in stone yet.
James Pearce: “Thuram, Kone, Veiga, Gravenberch and Lavia — have all come under consideration. However, that isn’t a definitive shortlist.”
Names such as James Ward-Prowse of Southampton and Chelsea’s Mason Mount have been ruled out, owing to either the age factor or the hefty price tag, respectively.
The top choice, Thuram, has sparked interest from numerous Premier League clubs. But sources from Liverpool quashed speculation about personal terms already being agreed upon with the player’s representatives. On the other hand, 21-year-old Veiga of Celta Vigo could be a cost-effective alternative, thanks to his release clause of around £34 million.
Whether Liverpool ends up signing one or two midfielders this summer will depend heavily on the cost-effectiveness of the deals on offer. Keita and Oxlade-Chamberlain’s low impact in the last season justifies this approach.
Liverpool’s Tactical Approach: Playing with What They Have
Thiago, in the final year of his contract, is still a crucial part of Klopp’s plans for the upcoming season. The manager is also optimistic about the return of Stefan Bajcetic from injury. It’s a comforting thought that players like Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott have shown immense progress and can potentially fill the midfield void.
Liverpool’s defensive structure also needs some tweaking. Ibrahima Konate has undoubtedly cemented his place alongside Virgil van Dijk. However, injury issues over the past two seasons highlight the need for a dynamic young backup. Benjamin Pavard of Bayern Munich has been linked, but his age takes him off Liverpool’s recruitment list.
Klopp’s Strategy: Youthful Reinforcement and Squad Rotation
Klopp might continue with Trent Alexander-Arnold in the hybrid role, or he may give young Conor Bradley a chance, especially after his commendable loan spell at Bolton Wanderers. This shift could free up Joe Gomez to cover at right-back, allowing Calvin Ramsay to recuperate from injuries during a loan at Preston North End.
As for Liverpool’s attacking depth, Klopp has a reliable front five in Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez. Even with Roberto Firmino’s exit and Salah’s forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations commitments, Liverpool’s faith in their young prospects like Ben Doak and Kaide Gordon remains steadfast.
While Liverpool has made a promising start with Mac Allister, there’s more to be done. The search for the right midfield and defensive reinforcements continues. Liverpool’s fans can expect a season of patience, quality, and strategic planning under the guidance of Klopp and Schmadtke.
