$38m ‘talks’, Alexis Mac Allister ‘done’ – Dream Liverpool midfield after Jürgen Klopp transfers
Liverpool will definitely be in the market for at least a couple of new midfielders this summer and we’ve taken a look at what the dream scenario would be.
Liverpool’s need for midfield signings this summer is greater than ever. This was highlighted after Jürgen Klopp’s side only managed to secure a place in the Europa League next season.
While the underwhelming fifth-place finish in the Premier League was not only down to the midfield, it certainly didn’t help. Thiago Alcântara, Naby Keïta and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have endured lengthy spells out which left the Reds down to the bare bones.
Thankfully there is some very promising emerging talent coming through the ranks. Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliott and Stefan Bajčetić have all impressed when called upon, but it won’t be enough.
One player that ticks those boxes is Brighton & Hove Albion star Alexis Mac Allister. The midfielder can play a variety of roles and matches the Red’s needs.
At 24 years old the Argentine has his best years ahead of him, despite having only just won the World Cup and achieved great success with Brighton in the Premier League. The Seagulls have a history of cashing in when the right bid arrives and could be tempted with an offer this summer. La Nacion in his homeland has already reported that the deal has been completed.
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In a recent interview, Mac Allister discussed a potential move away from Brighton but a desire to stay in the Premier League. Liverpool will certainly be watching this one closely and while it might not be done yet, it is certainly a strong possibility.
Another player that fits the bill is Nice’s Khéphren Thuram. The 22-year-old stands at 1.91 meters tall and has been a physical and commanding presence in Ligue 1 all season
Known for his dribbling ability and carrying the ball from deep up the field he suits Klopp’s tactics well. His size also makes him well-suited to the pace and demands of the Premier League.
Thuram has however spoken out on his love for Nice and could be a tricky deal this summer, though L’Equipe says Liverpool is already in talks.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Jude Bellingham came crashing down after the club revealed it would be unable to afford his transfer fee, but another player has drawn incredible similarities.
Manu Koné from Borussia Mönchengladbach is one worth keeping an eye on, with BILD reporting interest and that the Reds have made contact. Fabrizio Romano has reported that Liverpool has already been told that the Bundesliga side, who may want to cash in this summer, will demand at least $38m (£30m/€35m). Koné is well-known for his dribbling and prefers to sit deeper on the pitch.
this could be a perfect opportunity for Klopp. Leon Goretzka could be on his way out if Rice heads to Germany according to journalist Philipp Kessler (via Bavarian Football Works).
Goretzka has won it all at Bayern and would provide some invaluable experience in front of the defense. With Trent Alexander-Arnold in his new midfield hybrid role, Liverpool could keep this winning formula working, and know that the German midfielder would cover any gaps.
“They’re a great club, and their development since Klopp came has been amazing,” he told The Athletic in 2020. “We’re all a little proud of him winning the title. But I took a long time making my decision, and I was 100 per cent sure that Bayern was the right move for me.