After missing out on Champions League qualification for the first time since 2015/16, Liverpool are hellbent on revamping their squad in the coming months.
Jurgen Klopp’s midfield will likely undergo a significant overhaul over the summer aimed at maintaining the team’s competitiveness on multiple fronts, with the Reds bracing themselves for a carousel of transfers.
Given the German manager’s famous ‘gegenpress’, midfielders play a pivotal role in their high-intensity pressing game and creative build-up play, making it essential to maintain a strong and balanced unit.
However, recurring injury problems, coupled with form woes of several long-serving first-team stars, have forced Klopp to consider changing the face of his midfield for the new season.
Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are heading towards the Anfield exit after failing to earn new contracts. They will leave Merseyside as free agents at the end of June.
Following a nightmarish season-long loan in the Premier League, Arthur Melo will return to Juventus upon the expiry of his temporary deal at Liverpool.
But that may not be all when it comes to potential midfield departures, with Liverpool contemplating the prospect of shipping Fabio Carvalho out on loan to get more experience.
It’d leave Klopp with injury-prone Thiago Alcantara, ageing Jordan Henderson and Fabinho, and a relatively inexperienced trio – Curtis Jones, Stefan Bajcetic and Harvey Elliott – as the only options in the middle of the park.
With potential departures and the need for reinforcements, the midfield landscape at Liverpool could become a cause for concern.
Who could come?
Since at least four midfielders are on their way out, the Reds’ engine room could welcome as many as three new faces in the summer.
Let’s look at the potential acquisitions.
Alexis Mac Allister
It feels like Mac Allister’s switch from Brighton & Hove Albion to Anfield is a mere formality after the Argentine took a lap of honour following a 1-1 draw against Manchester City in his last appearance at the Amex Stadium.
As reported last week, the Reds have stepped up their efforts to sign the 2022 World Cup winner, with newly-appointed sporting director Jorg Schmadtke eager to complete the deal in the coming weeks.
Known for his exceptional ball control, playmaking skills and dribbling ability, the 24-year-old can cover a multitude of roles along the midfield line.
His close control enables him to navigate tight spaces, evade defenders with ease and open up spaces for his attacking comrades, something Liverpool desperately lacked in 2022/23.
Khephren Thuram
Following an eye-catching Ligue 1 campaign with Nice, maybe it’s time for Khephren to take his career to the next level, as will his brother Marcus, who could soon swap Borussia Monchengladbach for Inter Milan.
The 22-year-old’s style of play combines technical finesse, creativity and a strong work ethic, making him a perfect long-term successor for Fabinho, who had a sub-par season by his standards.
According to L’Equipe, Liverpool have initiated talks to land Thuram, but Nice won’t green-light his exit unless their €60 million asking price is met.
The son of the legendary French defender Lilian Thuram is ready to bid farewell to Ligue 1 after four years against Les Aiglons’ effort to make him stay at the Allianz Riviera for at least another year.
Manu Kone
As per Sport BILD, Kone has emerged as a genuine transfer target for Liverpool after enjoying a stellar season with Gladbach.
But like Thuram, the 22-year-old Frenchman won’t come cheap, with the Reds quoted €40-45m when they inquired about his signature.
Kone’s aggressive style of play perfectly suits Klopp’s high press, while his ability to carry the ball forward with pace and determination makes him a viable candidate to fill Henderson’s place on the right.
His versatility and ability to contribute in various areas of the pitch could make him a valuable asset if Liverpool get the deal over the line.
