Liverpool must remain vigilant for a potential cover option to Trent Alexander-Arnold, as reports suggest a player is considering a move to the Premier League in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Under Jürgen Klopp, Alexander-Arnold has consistently excelled for Liverpool, with his pivotal role emerging during a league clash against Arsenal at Anfield last season. The hybrid position he occupies has proven to be a perfect fit, significantly impacting the team’s performance.
The Reds’ fortunes took a positive turn when Alexander-Arnold embraced this new role, marking a crucial shift in what initially seemed like a disappointing campaign. This tactical adjustment propelled Liverpool into serious contention for the Premier League title in the subsequent months.
Despite the success, finding a suitable replacement for Alexander-Arnold’s unique inverted full-back position has proven challenging. However, recent news suggests a potential solution that could complement Jürgen Klopp’s midfield puzzle.
Amidst links with Paris Saint-Germain, reports from Sky Germany’s Kerry Hau indicate that Bayern Munich midfielder, Joshua Kimmich is open to embracing a new challenge in the summer transfer window.
Notably, Kimmich expresses a preference for a move to either the Premier League or La Liga, signaling an opportunity that Liverpool should carefully consider.
Barcelona have emerged as a prominent contender for Kimmich’s potential transfer from Spain. Despite Real Madrid’s established midfield, financial challenges hint that English teams, especially Liverpool, stand the best chance of securing the German international.
Approaching the final year of his contract, Kimmich’s TransferMarkt valuation of $82m (£65m/€75m) is expected to decrease. Liverpool, as reported by AS, expresses interest in the player, but his substantial wages pose a hurdle, standing at around $411,000-per-week (£322,000/€375,000-per-week), second only to Mohamed Salah.
While Kimmich’s acquisition would impact Liverpool’s wage structure, it holds significance for Klopp’s squad. Serving as a backup for Alexander-Arnold, Kimmich could also establish himself as a starting midfielder, particularly in defensive midfield, showcasing his prowess for the Bundesliga champions.
This addition could enhance Liverpool’s tactical versatility, allowing for the implementation of a formidable box formation with Kimmich or Alexander-Arnold as inverted playmakers. Both players rank in the top two percentile for progressive passes, showcasing their ability to unlock defenses at will.
Despite Kimmich turning 29 soon, the potential transfer mirrors that of Thiago Alcântara. With Thiago’s contract nearing expiration, Liverpool might have the opportunity to free up a significant portion of the wage budget if he fails to secure a new deal before summer.
Kimmich’s availability, particularly at a suggested figure of $32m (£25m/€29m) according to the Daily Star, without Real Madrid’s interference, presents a compelling prospect for Klopp.
As the upcoming transfer window approaches, Liverpool’s potential additions, including Kimmich, could elevate the team to Champions League contention.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Make January Transfer Decision Amid Jurgen Klopp Current Injury Woes