Jurgen Klopp’s transfers carousel at Anfield is starting to build up momentum. The Easter international break has only increased speculation as to who will leave and what replacements will come in during the summer transfer window.
Recent rumours have unsettled supporters as to what changes may occur in the near future. Daniel Sturridge and Jordan Henderson have now joined the rumour mill, alongside consistently-mentioned exits such as Christian Benteke and Simon Mignolet. Potential interest from Tottenham Hotspur in Henderson and Paris Saint-Germain in Sturridge has shocked the fanbase, with the daunting prospect of a complete refurbishment of the squad now a real possibility. Speculation is, however, just that in the modern footballing world.
Liverpool have already signed Joel Matip and Marko Grujić, and those two, coupled with the expected return of Lazar Markovic and the injured duo of Danny Ings and Joe Gomez, represent five “new” signings.
Liverpool seem to be linked at least with every player in the Bundesliga. Mario Götze, Ilkay Gündoğan, Mats Hummels and Granit Xhaka are just some of the players that the media seem to be promoting as potential Klopp signings. It is understandable that Klopp will be linked with the Bundesliga and Dortmund players in particular, but it is not realistic for four or five of the best players in Germany to come to a club like Liverpool, especially when the same number of exits are yet to be confirmed.
Klopp is a shrewd character and it is more likely that his main effort will be to add one or two more talented players and to be more concerned with shedding the squad of what he deems dead wood. The Liverpool coach’s ability to draw perhaps two more star quality signings could hinge massively on personal relationships and potential success in the Europa League. The possibility of no European football next year could prove to be a major obstacle in recruiting further top talents. Potentially, this is how a realistic major summer revamp could look.
The Outgoing
Christian Benteke: He has done himself no favours with his displays when played and his recent media comments, in regards to not signing if he knew he wouldn’t start. He should be one of the first players to go.
Simon Mignolet : His jittery displays and lack of development are worrisome. If Klopp can land a top quality goalkeeper and promotes Danny Ward to understudy, Mignolet should be on the way out.
Lucas Leiva: The Liverpool manager seems to like the combative Brazilian, but slots need to be opened up for incomings and he could make way.
Joe Allen: Similarly to Lucas, he has done well in cameos when introduced but may make way for an influx of new players.
Martin Skrtel: Exposed for his lack of pace and tactical nous over the last few seasons, his horror show against Southampton should seal his exit.
Adam Lallana: He potentially could stay as a squad asset if a top class midfielder is not signed, but his inconsistency and age factor could see him moved on if the right fee were offered.
The Incoming
Mario Götze: The personal relationship with Jurgen Klopp coupled with a chance to revamp a stalled career, could present Liverpool with their best chance to sign a marquee player.
Granit Xhaka: This will be the most difficult pursuit for Klopp over the summer. Xhaka is wanted by numerous clubs, but his stated preference of playing in the Premier League could prove crucial to a potential signing. Liverpool could provide a weaker case than some of the bigger clubs for his signature if there is no European football on offer next year.
The Wildcards
Mario Balotelli: If he is not sold on, Klopp will inherit the Italian misfit.
Daniel Sturridge: A brilliant goalscorer when fit, the problem is he is often unfit and or injured. A mega bid from one of Europe’s elite could tempt Liverpool to part ways with the striker.
Jordan Henderson: A reliable workhorse of a player, who is gradually being overshadowed by Emre Can in both the leadership and powerhouse stakes. It would not be surprising to see Henderson exiting if other squad moves threaten his starting role.
Zlatan Ibrahimović: Liverpool’s American owners could make a real statement of intent by signing the mercurial Swede on an 18-24 month contract. Yes, his wages are astronomical, but with shrewd trimmings of the wage bill via outgoings, Zlatan would be an inspirational signing.
