Xabi Alonso might contemplate the prospect of bringing several of his Bayer Leverkusen stars to Liverpool should he return to Anfield as manager.
Reports indicate that Liverpool have taken a significant stride towards appointing a successor to Jurgen Klopp by initiating contact with Xabi Alonso. The former Liverpool midfielder has garnered substantial success with Bayer Leverkusen this campaign, leading them to the top of the Bundesliga standings, ahead of perennial champions Bayern Munich.
While Alonso’s style of play differs slightly from Klopp’s, his potential appointment presents an exciting prospect for Liverpool. Here are three players from his current club whom he could consider bringing to Anfield to facilitate a swift adaptation for the 2024-25 season.
Florian Wirtz
Attacking midfielder Wirtz has emerged as one of the most coveted players in Europe, despite facing a setback with a torn ACL in March 2022. Despite his injury, the 20-year-old has established himself as one of the premier attacking talents on the continent.
Bayer Leverkusen’s No. 10 has showcased his prowess by netting eight goals and delivering an impressive 15 assists already in the ongoing season. Any interest from Liverpool, led by Alonso, in acquiring the services of the German international would require outbidding some of the wealthiest clubs globally.
Under Alonso’s management, Wirtz predominantly operates as a No. 10, utilising his right foot, although he possesses versatility and can also feature on the right flank or as a striker. Reports suggest that Manchester City are actively pursuing the former Koln prospect.
Jeremie Frimpong
If Alonso wants to utilise Trent Alexander-Arnold in a midfield role, he may consider bolstering the right-back position. Conor Bradley’s emergence in this role offers the incoming Reds boss something to ponder, although he may opt to pursue his own targets.
One potential target for Anfield could be Jeremie Frimpong. With previous experience at Premier League club Manchester City and Celtic, the dynamic wing-back could complement Andy Robertson effectively on the opposite flank.
At 23 years old, Frimpong has showcased his attacking prowess, tallying seven goals and 10 assists across various competitions this season—an impressive feat for a defender. Alonso has favoured a 3-4-3 formation during his tenure at Bayer, where Frimpong played a pivotal role on the right-hand side, shaping their defensive structure.
Piero Hincapie
If Alonso intends to deploy a back three at Liverpool, acquiring a left-footed center-back might become imperative in the upcoming summer transfer window. Currently, the Reds’ choices for this role all favor their right foot.
Bayer successfully outmaneuvered several prominent European clubs to secure the signing of Hincapie from Argentine side CA Talleres in 2021. Since his arrival, his displays in the Bundesliga have garnered significant attention.
As an Ecuadorian national team member, the 22-year-old showcases remarkable proficiency in ball control and aerial dominance. Moreover, his adaptability extends to covering the left-back position.
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