It is argued that Liverpool have the best starting 11 in the world. Unless they were to foot the bill for players like Kylian Mbappe or Neymar, there’s little improvement that can be made. Their midfield isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing to watch but the likes of Jordan Henderson and Georginio Wijnaldum are perfect for Jurgen Klopp’s system.
Where Liverpool could fall down, though, is the squad depth. The likes of Xherdan Shaqiri and Divock Origi have done well when they’ve been called upon but the worry is a long-term injury to a top player. Could Liverpool’s fringe players fill in for the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané?.
How Liverpool Can Improve Their Squad
Defence
If you were to make a World XI, there’s an argument that four of Liverpool’s back five would get in it. They are covered at centre back with Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren in the background. People may debate that the latter isn’t good enough and is constantly making mistakes, but nobody that is happy to be a fourth choice will join the club. If Lovren was to leave, which is likely, Liverpool could bring in a younger centre-back or promote Dutch youngster Sepp van den Berg.
Where Liverpool could do with reinforcement is at left-back. It’s a bit too early for youngsters Yasser Larouci and Adam Lewis, so the European Champions could do with signing an understudy to Andy Robertson. Names that have been thrown around include Paris Saint-Germain full-back Layvin Kurzawa and Barcelona’s Juinor Firpo. There were also rumours of Liverpool looking at Arsenal youngster Bukayo Saka if he doesn’t sign a new deal.
Midfield
Despite the imminent departure of Adam Lallana, Klopp seems happy with their choices in the engine room. It’s likely they will only move for a midfielder if the right player became available. A player that Liverpool are reportedly interested in is Lyon player Houssem Aouar, but with the current situation and the financial implications of the Coronavirus, it’s unlikely Liverpool will try and buy Frenchman.
Liverpool also have Serbian youngster Marko Grujic at their disposal. He’s currently on loan at Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin and will be keen to prove to Klopp that he’s good enough for the league leaders. The Reds have also been linked with Leeds United youngster Kevin Philips who’s been impressive in the Championship. With midfield not being a priority, it’s hard to see Liverpool buying anyone in that department.
Attack
Liverpool have arguably the best front three in the world, but if one of them was to get a long-term injury, it’s hard to tell if Divock Origi could cover effectively despite his heroics. This is why we see that Liverpool are keen on Timo Werner. Due to financial difficulties, they might not get the German this season but it is believed he is willing to wait until next summer.
There is also talk of Xherdan Shaqiri leaving this summer so Liverpool will probably need a replacement for him unless they put their trust in 17-year-old Harvey Elliot. In reality, it’s probably too early for him so Liverpool signing someone like Federico Chiesa, who has great potential, will be a ready-made replacement if Mane or Salah leave.
If Liverpool want to stay at the top and compete on all fronts, they’ll need to improve their squad depth. With the financial implications of the Coronavirus, they’ll have to be smart with their dealings.
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