Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has given the green light for a deal to be finalised, while the Reds’ pursuit of a promising 19-year-old has encountered setback.
Klopp, at the helm of Liverpool, is yet to make any moves in the January transfer window as he aims to guide the team to their second Premier League title. Their recent 4-0 victory against Bournemouth extended their lead at the top to five points, maintaining an impressive unbeaten streak of 14 games.
This successful campaign follows a summer overhaul at Anfield, particularly in the midfield, where Dominik Szoboszlai and Wataru Endō are absent. In their absence, Alexis Mac Allister showcased his skills in a standout performance against Bournemouth, highlighting his value since arriving from Brighton.
With over a week remaining in the transfer window, the question lingers on whether Liverpool, or any of their title rivals, will be enticed to make significant investments. Presently, the transfer market appears subdued, leaving fans and pundits to speculate on potential developments.
Liverpool are undeniably expanding its search for talent, yet it might encounter obstacles in pursuing a teenage prospect. Simultaneously, discussions are circulating about a potential summer departure from Anfield, possibly in the form of a record-breaking deal for the club. The following presents the Newsnow Liverpool perspective on the transfer speculations surrounding the Reds today.
Bilal El Khannouss (Genk)
Atlético Madrid are poised to compete with Liverpool in the pursuit of Moroccan prodigy Bilal El Khannouss, whose standout performances with Genk have garnered attention. Despite only making his senior debut in May 2022, the 19-year-old has swiftly emerged as one of Morocco’s premier talents.
Having been part of the World Cup squad that reached the semi-finals in Qatar, El Khannouss is currently representing his nation at the Africa Cup of Nations. While initial links with Liverpool surfaced before the January transfer window, recent developments suggest that Atlético have become the frontrunner for securing his signature.
According to reports from Marca, the Spanish side hold El Khannouss in high regard, viewing him as an ideal long-term successor to their 32-year-old captain, Koke. The young midfielder, who has netted three times for Genk this season, is not only on Liverpool’s radar but has also attracted interest from other European heavyweights like Manchester City and Marseille.
Bilal El Khannouss’s desirability among top clubs can be attributed to his impressive skill set, and Liverpool, known for nurturing African talent, recognizes his potential.
Despite being a prominent figure in Morocco’s international campaigns and showcasing his abilities with Genk, it seems unlikely that the 19-year-old would secure a regular starting role at Liverpool. Jurgen Klopp, with an array of midfield options, may contribute to the cooled interest in the talented youngster.
Caoimhín Kelleher (Liverpool)
Liverpool are reportedly open to letting backup goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher depart the club at the conclusion of the season. Despite earning praise from Jurgen Klopp as the world’s best second-choice keeper, Kelleher is reaching a career juncture where securing a starting role becomes crucial.
Report suggests a potential move to Celtic, with the Reds willing to part ways for approximately $25 million (£20 million/€23 million). Celtic, however, leans towards a loan arrangement with the option to acquire the goalkeeper later, marking a potential club record for the Scottish side.
Admitting Kelleher’s aspirations for a primary role, Klopp expressed his support for the goalkeeper’s development and signaled a willingness to explore replacement options. Former Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is reportedly keen on Kelleher, eyeing him as a successor to Joe Hart with the Scottish champions.
Recognising the limited first-team opportunities behind Alisson, who, at 31, is expected to remain a fixture for some time, Liverpool fans seem understanding of Kelleher’s desire to secure a starting position elsewhere.
While Kelleher is set to feature in various cup competitions this season, a summer departure might be essential for him to realise his full potential.
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