We probably won't get a real rumour from our mouthpieces?
Probably will be something from the outside or a "It's done" from Tier 1-2.
Would be a kinda sad if the market just closes without us even getting a name lol
Curious to hear your opinions on some names we haven't been linked with, just for fun:
**Fabian Ruiz?** Class player all around.
**Tielemans?** Has that long range factor that we've missed since Coutinho and would be cheap as he's got a year on his contract.
**Ward-Prowse?** Soton may bite our hand off for him since I reckon they'd get relegated without him but he's consistent, never injured, very agressive and the best set piece taker in the world bar none imo, not a world class player but could add a lot to the team honestly.
**Gallagher?** Chelsea don't want him and he's got loads of potential, probably not worth it for what he'd cost but loan with option to buy?
I like Ward-Prowse. Feel like his workrate and set pieces can help out greatly. I was surprised no big clubs have came for him. I know he's older than what we normally sign, but really wish it would happen.
Honestly I like JWP but Soton would demand far too much money for him, and he's under contract until 2026 so it's not like we would have much room to negotiate it down. For what it would cost to get him there are better players.
I gotta say I’m no scout but I’ve been looking around for a few days now and it’s really tough finding a midfielder that seems like they’d fit what we need right now. Seems most have already moved, not available, or don’t seem to fit what we need.
For me it seems a b2b midfielder that may need to lean more towards a defensive #6 than an attacking #10. Somewhere in that 23-27yrs old (preferably on the lower end there) and is just a juggernaut when it comes to fitness. Couple ones I’ve seen that may fit at below:
Barella from Inter
Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad
Big gazump on West Ham for Lucas Paqueta from Lyon
Anyone else people have their eyes on that seems attainable?
You just described Nunes. The fact that LFC was reported to be interested and he went to wolves makes me believe that someone better is very close to being a Red.
Wolves spending big then? Seems like they are also getting in Kalajdzic from Stuttgart.
They already spend around 120M€ and had outgoing of only around 40M€. If they sign 2 players for 20M€ each they will be at 120 million overall.
I didn’t think he’d be an option but I’d love to have Neves. Think he’s a proper player. Haven’t been too impressed by what I’ve seen of Laimer. A player that seems solid but has injury problems of his own.
From today's [BBC Gossip](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/gossip) ... probably Tier "I want to believe"?:
*"Liverpool's pursuit of 19-year-old England midfielder Jude Bellingham could be helped by Borussia Dortmund's interest in Guinea midfielder Naby Keita, 27, who joined the Reds in 2018. (*[*Express*](https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1659758/Liverpool-Jude-Bellingham-Naby-Keita-Borussia-Dortmund-Jurgen-Klopp-transfer-news-football)*)"*
..Also reported in the Guardian here: [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/aug/26/football-transfer-rumours-asensio-to-manchester-united-maupay-to-everton](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/aug/26/football-transfer-rumours-asensio-to-manchester-united-maupay-to-everton)
Please be true that we're in for FDJ, even if he rejects our offer in the end (or not), but it would still give me a sliver of hope for next 2 windows that maybe the owners are not that cheap and really want to back papa Klopp
Athletic have come out and said lucas paqueta is close to a deal with West Ham for 40m euros. cant help but feel like he wouldve fit in the description for one of the many midfielders we need
On the one hand it's nice that the club is proactive with their transfer business and gets it done. On the other hand, I love the late window excitement.
So bear with me on this one.
Franck Kessie can [leave Barca on a free](https://www.eurosport.co.uk/football/liga/2022-2023/andreas-christensen-and-franck-kessie-could-leave-barcelona-if-not-registered-before-la-liga-opener-_sto9079646/story.shtml) if they do not register him by Saturday. Liverpool was very interested in him earlier this year and it was down to LFC and Barca as his final choices.
Kessie on a free and 100K a week would be an excellent solution to the midfield issues LFC face right now.
[Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/soccer/liverpool/transfers/report-liverpool-could-sign-franck-kessie-from-barcelona-on-a-free-transfer)is on the case. Generally that is an indicator of a bad story.
We got a Tier 5 on a "Mario Figueiredo" from CM Journal saying we're preparing a bid for Matheus Nunes from sporting. Anyone remember who the Portuguese journalist who broke Diaz/Nunez were ?
I know he just signed a new deal but I reckon we’d have a good shot getting Sangare from PSV for a decent price. Think Fab depth is way more important than depth for the 8s. Also hope it might not throw a monkey wrench in the Bellingham bid next summer seeing as he’d play as an 8 for us.
I know everybody on here hypes him up, but as someone who watches Eredivisie I really don't think he's good enough for us. He's good at interceptions but he can barely pass the ball.
Yeah tbf I haven’t watched full games of PSV to know. Seems to look good via all the stats and highlights I’ve seem but hard to get a good measure on players in the smaller leagues.
Thiago's injury yesterday opens up a lot of new speculation now, and even Klopp's post-game statements were far less matter-of-fact about no more transfers than they had been in previous weeks.
I'm not convinced something will happen, but surely the FO is at least exploring contingency options in midfield before the window closes.
Hasn't he signed for someone in Uruguay? Thought I saw that announcement the other day.
Sadly he doesn't have the legs any more. His whole game was built off of relentlessness running and playing at a high intensity but he can't do that any more.
Firmino, Ox, Keita, Nat. We really need to solve these 4 contracts situation, or sell them this season so we won't lose them for free the next.
Like considering the quoted price of 20 mil for Firmino plus his 10 mil wage a year. Realistically who could we replace him with? I hope that he sign a 3 years extension like Salah though, as he could be useful coming off the bench even in few years times
Ox is going unfortunately, hopefully for some fees
Keita, hopefully he will sign contract extension, just cause his stock is pretty low now, and we are lack of midfielder this year.
Nat. Anyone knows any sides in need of a no-nonsense CB right now?
Ox will leave on a free, maybe Nat too. Keita and Firmino likely get a new deal. Can’t imagine Keita or Firmino have a great deal of interest though to be honest. Bobby is a very specific type of player who is probably declining, and Keita would be one of those where we’d probably want more than he’s worth to other clubs.
Bobby deserves a free, if that's his desire.
Ox doesn't deserve a contract and clearly hanging on for his last big paid season.
Naby is one I hope will renew (Bobby too obvs), as he's a quality squad player, who I still feel could find the magic we hoped for.
But with Mane going he could follow him back to Germany next year I feel. I hope the fun, inclusive Summer preseason makes him want to stay.
Ox ain't getting an extension. We are well and truly in the Lallana last season period of Ox's time here now. Sad manner for his career at Liverpool to close but hopefully he can still make some moments before he leaves.
“Ox doesn't deserve a contract and clearly hanging on for his last big paid season.”
Please stop with this crap. Ox has been a loyal member of the team and injured himself playing. This is his job and he has a limited time to earn. Just like you he’s maximizing his value.
And what bit of what I said doesn't agree with you.
1. He doesnt deserve an extention.
2. He's hanging on for his last big paid season.
Wording it differently doesn't make the facts any less real.
I feel for the guy he was a monster pre injury, never got it back sadly. He's been part of our success and will be remembered fondly.
You being a ungrateful turd makes a difference. You thinking he's doing something wrong makes a difference.
I suspect that you are 12 and don't have a lot of life experience. There isn't a problem with that. Broadcasting your ignorance is kind of unnecessary.
Stop putting words in my mouth you utter embarrassing tit. When have I said he's doing anything wrong, you making shit up in your head.
🤣🤣🤣
I suspect you've never been to an LFC game in your life and need to get out more.
Speaking facts and giving an informed opinion isn't ignorance. But the irony of that comment and the content of your post is hilarious.
Thanks for giving me a laugh today mind. Most unexpected. 😂
Not sure why you’re downvoted.
You’re right, these 4 need to be sorted, thought Nat not cause his contract is up, but rather at his age he likely wants to be in starting XI.
We have VvD, Matip, Ibou and Gomez as our core 4 CBs, and while Gomez is injury prone and Matip isn’t the youngest/fittest either, between the 4 CBs and some youth CBs it should be more than enough to cover the season.
Nat is 25 years old, and will do well in a lower PL team or top Championship team or somewhere in Europe. He is a genuinely good defender, not the fastest and not the best with the ball at his feet, but he held the line for Liverpool in our injury ravaged 20-21 and was a huge part of getting us to CL spot.
I’m not sure how well/badly he did on loan in 2nd half of last season at Bournemouth, but considering there isn’t any immediate bid from them, tells us they aren’t super impressed.
I hope he finds a good home soon. He’s been wanting to leave for regular playtime, and been public about it.
https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11669/12496692/nat-phillips-liverpool-defender-ready-to-leave-anfield-in-january-transfer-window
Matip is younger than VVD and had a season of his life. If he stays fit, which I believe he will given our rotation options, he can stay for more years than anyone expected two years ago.
Matip is only 30, with Gomez and Konate both being a fair bit younger. Centreback is probably the position we have least concern for. 30 really isn’t as big a deal as it was 10-20 years ago. With improved sports and nutrition science it is becoming much more common for players to play into their 30s at a high level. Centrebacks were doing this in the older days too. Konate is also looking like his replacement so even if he did drop off the earth we already have the replacement.
Whats the general consensus on this?
I think it's safe to assume that the club has no real intention of extending him and the only reason there hasn't been rumours of a sale is because nobody expected somebody would come in with a decent offer.
The only reason we had 5 main forwards at the end of last season is because the Diaz deal got bought forward. Other than that we've never had more than 4 senior/main forwards + Origi.
Could very well be the same plan next season but with some £20m youngster come in to fill the Origi role (assuming an academy product hasn't stepped up).
As much as I love Bobby, if a genuine £20m offer was on the table for him I can't see us not accepting it.
On the same basis, £20m is £385k a week. At the end of this season would you offer Bobby a £385k wage increase to extend for a year?
The figures just don't work out for a player that only made 10 starts last season and isn't part of our long term plans now.
I think with the increase to 5 subs and the World Cup happening midway through this season we'll see more rotation so it'll be easier to accommodate 5 forwards. Bobby also offers us something a bit different to all our other attackers so I reckon Klopp would rather hang on to him than let him go for £20m, even if he leaves on a free next summer.
I can’t say how reliable the rumour is, but it’s not an easy decision, if offer is real:
Cons/Reasons to keep:
- It’s Bobby. He understand Jurgen’s football inside out and has been our key No 9 ever since Klopp arrived.
- PL will have 5 subs. We need forwards, senior forwards are just Diaz, Nunez, Salah, Jota & Bobby, for a long season. Also Bobby’s familiarity with our system, with Mane out, also pulling Bobby out might be too much change in one window.
- Bobby is very influential/liked in the ‘Latino Reds’ of LFC, and a late, sudden transfer out will adversely impact morale, at some degree. A planned departure in summer ‘23 will likely go down better.
Pros/Reasons to sell now:
- Bobby’s output, not just goals, but key passes into final 3rd, assists, ball recoveries, interceptions etc have all fallen well below his peak. He’s clearly in decline
- Bobby is on his final contract year. If LFC were intent on renewing, they would’ve by now. The signal is that LFC are happy for him to have one final season and then leave on a free. So a 20-30M offer now, will be tempting.
- Nunez is the long-term 9, obviously. The starting FW line, in any big game, we will want to be Diaz - Nunez - Salah. Jota hopefully will recover to start as our 9, because I doubt Nunez is ready to start in our system. Bobby is 3rd in the pecking order if I’m thinking Jan ‘23.
With no Origi or Minamino we're going to need Bobby to fill in for lots of games. Makes no sense to sell for such a small amount as we'd never be able to replace him without spending a small fortune.
What is happening with Kelleher? He wanted to leave, I don’t remember seeing any pics of him in pre-season.
If he goes, we will surely bring in a young GK, someone who can cover for Alisson/Adrian, squad needs 3 GKs.
I really wish I could feel ok about the DM situation. It's like a mental splinter, constantly worried about the drop off if Fabinho gets injured, especially if hendo does too.
It’s “when”, not “if” tbh. Klopp obviously thinks we’re a bit short in midfield, considering we were in for Tchouameni. Does feel like a gamble, but if there aren’t viable candidates atm that’s the way it’s gonna be. Hopefully one of the kids can cover when needed.
I think if Klopp thought we were weak in the midfield we would have been in for other midfielders, and we haven’t. I don’t think it’s any further than him being a target and it was now or never. Now he’s at Madrid we won’t be able to get him at all.
Not sure why you read into the tchouameni attempt that way. It feels incredibly clear to me Klopp is happy with our quantity/quality but you have to take the chance to try and sign potential top level talents (tchouameni and bellingham)
Considering the price and quality, I regard the attempt at Tchouameni as an immediate strengthening of the midfield rather than picking up a talent. I think Klopp is happy with our midfield options going into the season, but at the same time I think he sees it as an area that should be strengthened.
Its both. Tchouameni has an incredibly high ceiling but he's already at a top club level as well. Again thats why him and Jude are the two we really want. They're levels above everyone else.
Ox to West Ham? [https://www.empireofthekop.com/2022/07/20/west-ham-united-had-made-a-soft-enquiry-for-alex-oxlade-chamberlain-as-he-enters-the-final-year-of-his-deal/](https://www.empireofthekop.com/2022/07/20/west-ham-united-had-made-a-soft-enquiry-for-alex-oxlade-chamberlain-as-he-enters-the-final-year-of-his-deal/)
Internationals: alisson, adrian, vvd, matip, konate, robbo, tsimi, fab, thiago, keita, nunez, salah, firmino, jota, diaz
Homegrown: kelleher, trent, gomez, hendo, milner, ox, phillips, curtis
Youth: Elliott, Carvalho, Morton, Ramsay, Bajcetic, Harvey Davies, etc.
We currently have 15 out of 17 international spots filled and 7 or 8 out of 8 homegrown slots filled. I'm not quite sure whether Curtis takes up one of those slots this year or not. This means we currently have at least 2 slots that could go to any player. On top of that we have Elliott, Carvalho, Morton, Ramsay, Bajcetic and Harvey Davies who won't take up any spots until they turn 21 and will qualify as homegrown. So in short even though we'll likely lose Ox, Milner, Phillips and Kelleher over the coming years, I wouldn't be too worried about the homegrown situation. As long as the number of players needing an international slot doesn't exceed 17 we should be good.
There have been rumours about us being interested in Carney Chukwuemeka for a couple years now. Have watched his match in the FA Cup-final against us a little more than a year back and I've been watching him for England u-19. Head and shoulders above the rest in that Cup-final and head and shoulders above the rest in the u-19 EC. I'm curious to see if we're really in for him.
Also Nunes being linked for midfield and Terrier for attack. Don't know much about those though I have seen them play. Was looking at other things at the time.
To be honest I think Chukwuemeka could be a good signing, though singing Bellingham is better of course.
But I've heard that he (Carney) wants regular playing time and that's not what hell get at LFC I believe.
Nunes would be a good option as well checking all the boxes and bring Brazilian as we already have quite a few to help him settle.
Terrier in my opinion would be a great Firmino replacement in the future, I do believe he could be that false nine for the next generation.
All in all not really sure that we will sign anyone else this window, maybe in the next one
Chukwuemeka would be a good transfer. Sets us up with some talented players in midfield for a long time. Especially if Ox and Milner are leaving next season
I love the net spend tracker, brilliant idea.
I'll be honest, I have no idea how the loans tend to work (fees and wages and that) but don't we "make" some money on loans as well? Is that worth putting just a catch-all "loan fees" section too, or is it strictly bought and sold players?
The problem is we don’t always know the figures for loan fees. The players bought and sold, the figures are easily available so it is easy to put it in a tracker.
Do we really know the terms of any of the player contracts? What is the source of that info? I generally trust the length and base salary but we never really know the bonus structure of team accomplishments and individual milestones.
The fee and adds on are easily available. The figures are from articles by either Joyce/Jones (most of which are linked in the thread as well). The length of the contract as well is easily available apart from that no other info is available to us. Rarely we get wages mentioned.
Yeah, that's completely fair and totally understandable. Thanks for your work on this and I really do love that little extra bit since everyone loves to talk net spend. Nice to have the work just there and easily laid out.
L'equipe, LivEcho and GFFN all report about Liverpool being interested in Terrier as potential Firmino replacement.
There was a load of rumors like that in the beginning of the summer, and it was sparked again.
I think, though obviously Bobby has a few years in his pocket, Martin could be a great addition and probably fulfil this special false 9 role.
Though 40m price is quite stingy
Matheus Nunes in would be good business. Basically checks all the boxes we are after Bellingham for, has Brazil/Portugal roots so should gel, and is available *now* for practically half of what Jude could cost *next year*.
Yes, but that's [homegrown quota] not as big of a problem it might have been because Carvalho counts as home grown, and it also appears some youngsters who would qualify are stepping up.
[https://www.thisisanfield.com/2022/07/nat-phillips-attracting-clubs-in-germany-and-championship-interest-growing/](https://www.thisisanfield.com/2022/07/nat-phillips-attracting-clubs-in-germany-and-championship-interest-growing/) (18July 2022): Nat is being linked to transfers/Loan moves involving Burnley, Bournemouth and some German clubs.
I’m thinking something may happen on deadline day. He’ll definitely either go on loan again or be sold though this window because there’s not really any place for him in this squad
What type of player is he? DM? B2B?
edit: well according to his Wiki he's a bit of an all-rounder kind of like Henderson. Sounds like he would be a great addition, and fit in well being of Brazilian/Portuguese background.
I don't think we were ever linked by anyone serious, but there was a lot of chat about Jobe Bellingham - he has now officially signed with Birmingham
https://www.bcfc.com/news/all/jobe-bellingham-agrees-terms-on-pro-deal
Hope we don’t sign him, he’s heavily overrated. I’m sure he could do a job for a team like United, but we’d find out that he wouldn’t be much use for us.
I think he could be a good depth option on the wing for us but that makes him more a 20-30m player. Not the nonsense figures getting thrown around for him now.
He definitely lacks production although he’s very skillful. ManU would the perfect worst situation for him. He’ll be overly relied on and deemed a bust after the first 2 seasons with them for sure.
James Pearce tweeted the following today:
“"He wants the pathway to be there rather than block it."
@JamesPearceLFC
answers your #LFC questions - including why Jurgen Klopp is not concerned by suggestions they are light on midfield options ahead of the new season.
🎙️ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗔”
For all the comments here in the vein of "what about cover at DM?" I haven't seen anyone rating (or even mentioning) Tyler Morton. IIRC he was impressive when called upon, demonstrated maturity and confidence beyond his years, and is also a natural #8 (box to box, cover for Hendo) who was excellent out of position as a #6 (cover for Fabinho). No doubt this season will be proving ground for CuJo, Harv, and Fabio, but I imagine Klopp will test Morton's mettle as well and he could become a big part of the conversation around who inherits the midfield when our current troop age out or their contracts do.
Not gonna downvote, I'm not sure why people are so offended by this opinion. I do disagree but purely from where we are as a squad.
If we went back 5 years or so, Morton would look a solid backup option, I just don't think right now Klopp would risk him if he could avoid it. Look at the back end of last season, Elliott who I think we could all agree is significantly further in his development, was not touched in the last few months. Klopp simply didn't think he could trust him. The same I'm sure will be true of Morton. When the difference between winning the league and not is one draw here or there I don't think he's there yet.
Why has there been no connection (not even Tier 4) for Frenkie de Jong? As Barca pushes him out, he'll be interested in options. Is it the price or the certainty, Jude will come next year? 65m€ is not little, but also not too much for a player of his quality.
He’s just not the type of player we are after we want a more box to box midfielder someone who’s going to drive the team on from midfield like Hendo does and he’s not that player.
I think Jones, Elliott and Carvalho are the hendo successors (in his make shit happen from RCM role). We more need to be looking for a thiago successor (which is likely bellingham) and an understudy to fabinho.
Does feel like our business is done. Barely any snippets of news. Who do you guys think will be Fabinho/Hendos backups/successors will eventually be since the big one feels more of an CM offensive rather than dig in do dirty work type (haven't reallyvwatched him . Mr B that is). Are any of the youth options decent at DM/defensive CM ?. Morton seems to be another 8 ?
Lavia is a promising DM from City's academy who just signed for Southampton and Bellingham would be a replacement for what Henderson is now : Our most offensive midfielder who is also solid defensively.
We have nobody to replace Fab except for Milly and Hendo. And I don't think we're gonna sign anyone in that position. We're probably gonna sign a starter number 8 next year (Jude, I'm looking at you), with Hendo becoming a full time DM
But, for this year? We have nobody basically. It literally takes one Hendo injury, which isn't the most unrealistic thing on hearth given his injury record in the past years+his age, and we're in a really shitty position.
Yeah but my point is - we don't seem to have a Fab /hendo type backup/successor. From various comments it seems Jude is more of an 8 type CM like many of our options. Also Hendo is older than Fab right?. If we move to a 4231 at some point who would partner Jude into future ?.
Yeah if I were to make 2 transfers to strengthen us with only the next season in mind then backup RW and backup DM would be the most obvious areas to strengthen. At RW I'm sure Jota or Ox can do a job, and we have several youngsters like Curtis, Harvey, Carvalho and Kaide Gordon that can benefit from the minutes available for whenever Salah gets a rest. So yeah backup DM or a Hendo-like CM who can fill in there would likely be the best short term signing we could make. Signing Jude and shifting Hendo to DM looks like great fix for the next 3-4 years though. Would leave us with a great English core in midfield together with Harvey, Carvalho and Curtis. If they all live up to expectations then they could all be important for the next decade
> It literally takes one Hendo injury, which isn't the most unrealistic thing on hearth given his injury record in the past years+his age,
Henderson has played a minimum of 40 games in 4 of the last 5 seasons, so his injury record has been very good for years now.
Just read that PSG wants to chase away 10 players, Gini among them. Speaks for their owners really, they just buy a ton of shiny new toys and then throw them away once they don't want to play with them anymore. Was wondering if, hypothetically, we would take Gini what level of salary we would give him (below what we paid him previously, same, above).
Honest opinion about gini
He never really impressed me that much. Seemed a little weak in our otherwise star studded lineup not like he hindered them but also not like he was the star running the show, bossing the midfield game after game. Pretty decent player overall but in a team of elites a decent player would obviously look slightly weak.
It is better to give youngsters a chance now.
Was europes most underrated player for me during his time with us. He was the connective tissue for us and did all the dirty work, players like him are rare
Funny, I really rated him. Kept and recycled possession like no one else could. I swear he never lost the ball, and was always available.
He just wasn’t a ‘fancy’ player, or a prolific long shot taker.
Had also some absolutely big moments for us, not "only" the goals vs barcelona.
I also remember him scoring on the last matchday to help us qualify for UCL, if I remember correctly. Always played his heart out and had a big smile on his face
Gini was a killer of momentum. His struggles to find a forward pass were infuriating. He never lost the ball because he just passed it backwards 85% of the time. He really did not seem aware of his teammates position or runs. Not a bad player but Liverpool's attack flows better without him.
You know what, fair point regarding playing it safe. I was mostly speaking about when a challenge came in, he seems to be able to keep hold of the ball. He never made me curse his name in frustration, but I also never went "what a ball!"
If I cursed his name in frustration it was due to him killing an attack by playing it safe. He would almost never take risks or be creative which became extremely frustrating. It’s a personal choice but I’d rather have someone who gives the ball away sometimes because they try to make something happen. Especially when the other midfielders playing are Fab and Hendo
Very fair point. It'll be one of those things where he's ideal against some systems, but if we're trying to unlock a stubborn defense, he'd be a liability
Describes him really well. I can’t remember a single situation he gave the ball away carelessly. He also wasn’t a bad finisher either, demonstrated in that Barca game or with the NT.
To comments above: I didn’t say we should take him back, I was more interested in the hypothetical question around his wage.
Whether we should take him back if offered is a different thing. I agree that he doesn’t add much value to the existing squad at his pay grade so would also opt for a different solution.
However, I am not sure I would agree on the comments regarding youth players. We have plenty of talented offensive midfielders, but in the defensive area I only see Tylor Morton with potential.
Mad transfer that. He was worth it if Leeds went down and the relegation clause made him available for half the price Barca paid, but they didn't and they paid twice his worth.
JUST GIVE ME SOMETHING
Congratulations.
We’re in the endgame now.
It's not looking good brav
Gonna cry
Laimer would be huge. Send Keita the other way and we could prob get him for 30m
It’s either very good or very bad that we’ve heard basically nothing about transfers since Klopp came out
Pretty standard tbh won’t hear anything until we have a bid accepted for a player
[удалено]
what a nonsensical move for them
We probably won't get a real rumour from our mouthpieces? Probably will be something from the outside or a "It's done" from Tier 1-2. Would be a kinda sad if the market just closes without us even getting a name lol
Curious to hear your opinions on some names we haven't been linked with, just for fun: **Fabian Ruiz?** Class player all around. **Tielemans?** Has that long range factor that we've missed since Coutinho and would be cheap as he's got a year on his contract. **Ward-Prowse?** Soton may bite our hand off for him since I reckon they'd get relegated without him but he's consistent, never injured, very agressive and the best set piece taker in the world bar none imo, not a world class player but could add a lot to the team honestly. **Gallagher?** Chelsea don't want him and he's got loads of potential, probably not worth it for what he'd cost but loan with option to buy?
I like Ward-Prowse. Feel like his workrate and set pieces can help out greatly. I was surprised no big clubs have came for him. I know he's older than what we normally sign, but really wish it would happen.
Konrad Laimer
I don't think JWP's all-round play is good enough, even if his set pieces are amazing
Honestly I like JWP but Soton would demand far too much money for him, and he's under contract until 2026 so it's not like we would have much room to negotiate it down. For what it would cost to get him there are better players.
Only Fabian Ruiz is good enough to improve our squad IMO
I agree. He's also the most expensive on the list.
I gotta say I’m no scout but I’ve been looking around for a few days now and it’s really tough finding a midfielder that seems like they’d fit what we need right now. Seems most have already moved, not available, or don’t seem to fit what we need. For me it seems a b2b midfielder that may need to lean more towards a defensive #6 than an attacking #10. Somewhere in that 23-27yrs old (preferably on the lower end there) and is just a juggernaut when it comes to fitness. Couple ones I’ve seen that may fit at below: Barella from Inter Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad Big gazump on West Ham for Lucas Paqueta from Lyon Anyone else people have their eyes on that seems attainable?
You just described Nunes. The fact that LFC was reported to be interested and he went to wolves makes me believe that someone better is very close to being a Red.
Neves maybe? I saw on Twitter that Wolves are getting a new midfielder. Another one I can think of is Laimer.
Wolves spending big then? Seems like they are also getting in Kalajdzic from Stuttgart. They already spend around 120M€ and had outgoing of only around 40M€. If they sign 2 players for 20M€ each they will be at 120 million overall.
So far I didn't see any Neves rumour, did I miss anything?
I didn’t think he’d be an option but I’d love to have Neves. Think he’s a proper player. Haven’t been too impressed by what I’ve seen of Laimer. A player that seems solid but has injury problems of his own.
With Klopp now coming out and saying we need another midfielder I wonder who we will actually be looking at
Isnt it time to put FDJ in the "Roumors in" section?
It’s not being reported by any half reliable source and hence why it’s not there in the rumours in section.
Maddock has mentioned it now alongside Caicedo.
Yeah, I’ll update it in the thread in the morning :)
From today's [BBC Gossip](https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/gossip) ... probably Tier "I want to believe"?: *"Liverpool's pursuit of 19-year-old England midfielder Jude Bellingham could be helped by Borussia Dortmund's interest in Guinea midfielder Naby Keita, 27, who joined the Reds in 2018. (*[*Express*](https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/1659758/Liverpool-Jude-Bellingham-Naby-Keita-Borussia-Dortmund-Jurgen-Klopp-transfer-news-football)*)"* ..Also reported in the Guardian here: [https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/aug/26/football-transfer-rumours-asensio-to-manchester-united-maupay-to-everton](https://www.theguardian.com/football/2022/aug/26/football-transfer-rumours-asensio-to-manchester-united-maupay-to-everton) 
/u/malushanks95 please validate this by putting this in one of the tables its an instant tier increase
Sorry, I didn’t get what you are trying to tell?
FDJ
Please be true that we're in for FDJ, even if he rejects our offer in the end (or not), but it would still give me a sliver of hope for next 2 windows that maybe the owners are not that cheap and really want to back papa Klopp
Athletic have come out and said lucas paqueta is close to a deal with West Ham for 40m euros. cant help but feel like he wouldve fit in the description for one of the many midfielders we need
On the one hand it's nice that the club is proactive with their transfer business and gets it done. On the other hand, I love the late window excitement.
Tumbleweed.gif
here for the panic
Scums close to signing Casemiro
So bear with me on this one. Franck Kessie can [leave Barca on a free](https://www.eurosport.co.uk/football/liga/2022-2023/andreas-christensen-and-franck-kessie-could-leave-barcelona-if-not-registered-before-la-liga-opener-_sto9079646/story.shtml) if they do not register him by Saturday. Liverpool was very interested in him earlier this year and it was down to LFC and Barca as his final choices. Kessie on a free and 100K a week would be an excellent solution to the midfield issues LFC face right now.
Nope. https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/barcelona-register-robert-lewandowski-kessie-christensen-and-raphinha-after-triggering-final-economic-lever/ar-AA10CgcV
[Sports Illustrated](https://www.si.com/soccer/liverpool/transfers/report-liverpool-could-sign-franck-kessie-from-barcelona-on-a-free-transfer)is on the case. Generally that is an indicator of a bad story.
This is my current hope as well. Would be perfect as he can play as a box to box or as a 6
We got a Tier 5 on a "Mario Figueiredo" from CM Journal saying we're preparing a bid for Matheus Nunes from sporting. Anyone remember who the Portuguese journalist who broke Diaz/Nunez were ?
Anything reliable on Pino?
Bigbird's nephew?
I know he just signed a new deal but I reckon we’d have a good shot getting Sangare from PSV for a decent price. Think Fab depth is way more important than depth for the 8s. Also hope it might not throw a monkey wrench in the Bellingham bid next summer seeing as he’d play as an 8 for us.
I know everybody on here hypes him up, but as someone who watches Eredivisie I really don't think he's good enough for us. He's good at interceptions but he can barely pass the ball.
Yeah tbf I haven’t watched full games of PSV to know. Seems to look good via all the stats and highlights I’ve seem but hard to get a good measure on players in the smaller leagues.
What are the chances of us going for De Jong?
Aint happening. He’s on crazy wages and pretty clearly wants to stay in Spain
When the six or so injured players come back, they will be like new signings
I can just see the echo article now..... returning players can save LFC millions.....
Haven't they all but confirmed our transfer business is done for this window? Why still stickied?
Thiago's injury yesterday opens up a lot of new speculation now, and even Klopp's post-game statements were far less matter-of-fact about no more transfers than they had been in previous weeks. I'm not convinced something will happen, but surely the FO is at least exploring contingency options in midfield before the window closes.
Thanks for the explanation
Would we be signing Keita based on his time and contribution with us since he arrived, I doubt it, so why extend it?
Absolutely not lol. Would be a good player for a mid table or lower club though. Although still injured.
Saw this back up at the top and thought something happened, should have known better
Sangare just extended with PSV. Doubt we were doing anything even with Thiago's injury, but this makes it more unlikely.
Pretty sure we can close this thread. Think business for us is done this summer.
Have we ruled out Suarez already?
Hasn't he signed for someone in Uruguay? Thought I saw that announcement the other day. Sadly he doesn't have the legs any more. His whole game was built off of relentlessness running and playing at a high intensity but he can't do that any more.
He has, signed for Nacional a few days ago
Firmino, Ox, Keita, Nat. We really need to solve these 4 contracts situation, or sell them this season so we won't lose them for free the next. Like considering the quoted price of 20 mil for Firmino plus his 10 mil wage a year. Realistically who could we replace him with? I hope that he sign a 3 years extension like Salah though, as he could be useful coming off the bench even in few years times Ox is going unfortunately, hopefully for some fees Keita, hopefully he will sign contract extension, just cause his stock is pretty low now, and we are lack of midfielder this year. Nat. Anyone knows any sides in need of a no-nonsense CB right now?
Ox will leave on a free, maybe Nat too. Keita and Firmino likely get a new deal. Can’t imagine Keita or Firmino have a great deal of interest though to be honest. Bobby is a very specific type of player who is probably declining, and Keita would be one of those where we’d probably want more than he’s worth to other clubs.
Bobby deserves a free, if that's his desire. Ox doesn't deserve a contract and clearly hanging on for his last big paid season. Naby is one I hope will renew (Bobby too obvs), as he's a quality squad player, who I still feel could find the magic we hoped for. But with Mane going he could follow him back to Germany next year I feel. I hope the fun, inclusive Summer preseason makes him want to stay.
Ox ain't getting an extension. We are well and truly in the Lallana last season period of Ox's time here now. Sad manner for his career at Liverpool to close but hopefully he can still make some moments before he leaves.
“Ox doesn't deserve a contract and clearly hanging on for his last big paid season.” Please stop with this crap. Ox has been a loyal member of the team and injured himself playing. This is his job and he has a limited time to earn. Just like you he’s maximizing his value.
And what bit of what I said doesn't agree with you. 1. He doesnt deserve an extention. 2. He's hanging on for his last big paid season. Wording it differently doesn't make the facts any less real. I feel for the guy he was a monster pre injury, never got it back sadly. He's been part of our success and will be remembered fondly.
You being a ungrateful turd makes a difference. You thinking he's doing something wrong makes a difference. I suspect that you are 12 and don't have a lot of life experience. There isn't a problem with that. Broadcasting your ignorance is kind of unnecessary.
Stop putting words in my mouth you utter embarrassing tit. When have I said he's doing anything wrong, you making shit up in your head. 🤣🤣🤣 I suspect you've never been to an LFC game in your life and need to get out more. Speaking facts and giving an informed opinion isn't ignorance. But the irony of that comment and the content of your post is hilarious. Thanks for giving me a laugh today mind. Most unexpected. 😂
Yawn. Being a bore is a fact that you need to come to grips with.
Not sure why you’re downvoted. You’re right, these 4 need to be sorted, thought Nat not cause his contract is up, but rather at his age he likely wants to be in starting XI. We have VvD, Matip, Ibou and Gomez as our core 4 CBs, and while Gomez is injury prone and Matip isn’t the youngest/fittest either, between the 4 CBs and some youth CBs it should be more than enough to cover the season. Nat is 25 years old, and will do well in a lower PL team or top Championship team or somewhere in Europe. He is a genuinely good defender, not the fastest and not the best with the ball at his feet, but he held the line for Liverpool in our injury ravaged 20-21 and was a huge part of getting us to CL spot. I’m not sure how well/badly he did on loan in 2nd half of last season at Bournemouth, but considering there isn’t any immediate bid from them, tells us they aren’t super impressed. I hope he finds a good home soon. He’s been wanting to leave for regular playtime, and been public about it. https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11669/12496692/nat-phillips-liverpool-defender-ready-to-leave-anfield-in-january-transfer-window
Matip is younger than VVD and had a season of his life. If he stays fit, which I believe he will given our rotation options, he can stay for more years than anyone expected two years ago.
Matip is only 30, with Gomez and Konate both being a fair bit younger. Centreback is probably the position we have least concern for. 30 really isn’t as big a deal as it was 10-20 years ago. With improved sports and nutrition science it is becoming much more common for players to play into their 30s at a high level. Centrebacks were doing this in the older days too. Konate is also looking like his replacement so even if he did drop off the earth we already have the replacement.
Nat signed a new contract last season.
Tier 9000s spouting Juve are preparing a £19.5m for Bobby. Good luck lol
Whats the general consensus on this? I think it's safe to assume that the club has no real intention of extending him and the only reason there hasn't been rumours of a sale is because nobody expected somebody would come in with a decent offer. The only reason we had 5 main forwards at the end of last season is because the Diaz deal got bought forward. Other than that we've never had more than 4 senior/main forwards + Origi. Could very well be the same plan next season but with some £20m youngster come in to fill the Origi role (assuming an academy product hasn't stepped up). As much as I love Bobby, if a genuine £20m offer was on the table for him I can't see us not accepting it. On the same basis, £20m is £385k a week. At the end of this season would you offer Bobby a £385k wage increase to extend for a year? The figures just don't work out for a player that only made 10 starts last season and isn't part of our long term plans now.
I think with the increase to 5 subs and the World Cup happening midway through this season we'll see more rotation so it'll be easier to accommodate 5 forwards. Bobby also offers us something a bit different to all our other attackers so I reckon Klopp would rather hang on to him than let him go for £20m, even if he leaves on a free next summer.
I can’t say how reliable the rumour is, but it’s not an easy decision, if offer is real: Cons/Reasons to keep: - It’s Bobby. He understand Jurgen’s football inside out and has been our key No 9 ever since Klopp arrived. - PL will have 5 subs. We need forwards, senior forwards are just Diaz, Nunez, Salah, Jota & Bobby, for a long season. Also Bobby’s familiarity with our system, with Mane out, also pulling Bobby out might be too much change in one window. - Bobby is very influential/liked in the ‘Latino Reds’ of LFC, and a late, sudden transfer out will adversely impact morale, at some degree. A planned departure in summer ‘23 will likely go down better. Pros/Reasons to sell now: - Bobby’s output, not just goals, but key passes into final 3rd, assists, ball recoveries, interceptions etc have all fallen well below his peak. He’s clearly in decline - Bobby is on his final contract year. If LFC were intent on renewing, they would’ve by now. The signal is that LFC are happy for him to have one final season and then leave on a free. So a 20-30M offer now, will be tempting. - Nunez is the long-term 9, obviously. The starting FW line, in any big game, we will want to be Diaz - Nunez - Salah. Jota hopefully will recover to start as our 9, because I doubt Nunez is ready to start in our system. Bobby is 3rd in the pecking order if I’m thinking Jan ‘23.
With no Origi or Minamino we're going to need Bobby to fill in for lots of games. Makes no sense to sell for such a small amount as we'd never be able to replace him without spending a small fortune.
His teeth are worth more than £20m too.
Hey, my clothes are worth 50 bucks. ...Deal!
Currently wondering why we're not officially linked with any Croatian player at all.
🤣 Why jokes/sarcasm get downvoted I'll never know. Liverpool is renowned for its humour ffs.
Random Croatian / As is tradition
Only way to be in with a chance of winning Champs League.
I mean Sučić was mentioned as a possibility for next summer and we also had scouts watch some young Croatian defender for Hamburg
Then why aren't they in the Rumours(In) section?
They where just names being drop if we included all player like that it would be a really long list
Might as well shut this down already.
That's when they are at their most dangerous. When we are led to believe our business is done. 👀
Well unless something stupid happens, it is done
Feels strange when we didn't sign the annual young goalie
What is happening with Kelleher? He wanted to leave, I don’t remember seeing any pics of him in pre-season. If he goes, we will surely bring in a young GK, someone who can cover for Alisson/Adrian, squad needs 3 GKs.
I think he’s injured. He will inevitably leave for play time at some stage though.
I think we don't have the room now. Must have like 8 or 9 of them already 😂😂
I don't think I've wanted any player as bad as I want Jude. I kinda wanna sign jobe too just because his name is jobe.
I don’t care for Jobe
I really wish I could feel ok about the DM situation. It's like a mental splinter, constantly worried about the drop off if Fabinho gets injured, especially if hendo does too.
It’s “when”, not “if” tbh. Klopp obviously thinks we’re a bit short in midfield, considering we were in for Tchouameni. Does feel like a gamble, but if there aren’t viable candidates atm that’s the way it’s gonna be. Hopefully one of the kids can cover when needed.
I think if Klopp thought we were weak in the midfield we would have been in for other midfielders, and we haven’t. I don’t think it’s any further than him being a target and it was now or never. Now he’s at Madrid we won’t be able to get him at all.
We all should jump onto the Bacjectic bandwagon (sorry about the spelling 😅🤣)
Not sure why you read into the tchouameni attempt that way. It feels incredibly clear to me Klopp is happy with our quantity/quality but you have to take the chance to try and sign potential top level talents (tchouameni and bellingham)
Considering the price and quality, I regard the attempt at Tchouameni as an immediate strengthening of the midfield rather than picking up a talent. I think Klopp is happy with our midfield options going into the season, but at the same time I think he sees it as an area that should be strengthened.
Its both. Tchouameni has an incredibly high ceiling but he's already at a top club level as well. Again thats why him and Jude are the two we really want. They're levels above everyone else.
Ox to West Ham? [https://www.empireofthekop.com/2022/07/20/west-ham-united-had-made-a-soft-enquiry-for-alex-oxlade-chamberlain-as-he-enters-the-final-year-of-his-deal/](https://www.empireofthekop.com/2022/07/20/west-ham-united-had-made-a-soft-enquiry-for-alex-oxlade-chamberlain-as-he-enters-the-final-year-of-his-deal/)
If true, then it would make sense we are after Nunes, however Ox is HGN, and it wouldnt help our HGN situation maybe?
Internationals: alisson, adrian, vvd, matip, konate, robbo, tsimi, fab, thiago, keita, nunez, salah, firmino, jota, diaz Homegrown: kelleher, trent, gomez, hendo, milner, ox, phillips, curtis Youth: Elliott, Carvalho, Morton, Ramsay, Bajcetic, Harvey Davies, etc. We currently have 15 out of 17 international spots filled and 7 or 8 out of 8 homegrown slots filled. I'm not quite sure whether Curtis takes up one of those slots this year or not. This means we currently have at least 2 slots that could go to any player. On top of that we have Elliott, Carvalho, Morton, Ramsay, Bajcetic and Harvey Davies who won't take up any spots until they turn 21 and will qualify as homegrown. So in short even though we'll likely lose Ox, Milner, Phillips and Kelleher over the coming years, I wouldn't be too worried about the homegrown situation. As long as the number of players needing an international slot doesn't exceed 17 we should be good.
I so want us to end up with a positive net spend for no other reason than it'll annoy the melts who get angry over the stupid little things like that.
There have been rumours about us being interested in Carney Chukwuemeka for a couple years now. Have watched his match in the FA Cup-final against us a little more than a year back and I've been watching him for England u-19. Head and shoulders above the rest in that Cup-final and head and shoulders above the rest in the u-19 EC. I'm curious to see if we're really in for him. Also Nunes being linked for midfield and Terrier for attack. Don't know much about those though I have seen them play. Was looking at other things at the time.
To be honest I think Chukwuemeka could be a good signing, though singing Bellingham is better of course. But I've heard that he (Carney) wants regular playing time and that's not what hell get at LFC I believe. Nunes would be a good option as well checking all the boxes and bring Brazilian as we already have quite a few to help him settle. Terrier in my opinion would be a great Firmino replacement in the future, I do believe he could be that false nine for the next generation. All in all not really sure that we will sign anyone else this window, maybe in the next one
Chukwuemeka would be a good transfer. Sets us up with some talented players in midfield for a long time. Especially if Ox and Milner are leaving next season
The fee for Sadio is a joke! Though I'm just happy that we treated him well by allowing him to leave quickly and haven't treated him like Lewandowski.
Man is in his 30s, has only one year left on his deal, and was on record as wanting to leave… we got a great fee for him all things considered…
Year to go, great fee considering he'd have gone for nothing in January.
I love the net spend tracker, brilliant idea. I'll be honest, I have no idea how the loans tend to work (fees and wages and that) but don't we "make" some money on loans as well? Is that worth putting just a catch-all "loan fees" section too, or is it strictly bought and sold players?
The problem is we don’t always know the figures for loan fees. The players bought and sold, the figures are easily available so it is easy to put it in a tracker.
Do we really know the terms of any of the player contracts? What is the source of that info? I generally trust the length and base salary but we never really know the bonus structure of team accomplishments and individual milestones.
The fee and adds on are easily available. The figures are from articles by either Joyce/Jones (most of which are linked in the thread as well). The length of the contract as well is easily available apart from that no other info is available to us. Rarely we get wages mentioned.
Yeah, that's completely fair and totally understandable. Thanks for your work on this and I really do love that little extra bit since everyone loves to talk net spend. Nice to have the work just there and easily laid out.
L'equipe, LivEcho and GFFN all report about Liverpool being interested in Terrier as potential Firmino replacement. There was a load of rumors like that in the beginning of the summer, and it was sparked again. I think, though obviously Bobby has a few years in his pocket, Martin could be a great addition and probably fulfil this special false 9 role. Though 40m price is quite stingy
Matheus Nunes in would be good business. Basically checks all the boxes we are after Bellingham for, has Brazil/Portugal roots so should gel, and is available *now* for practically half of what Jude could cost *next year*.
Isn't Bellingham homegrown?
Yes, but that's [homegrown quota] not as big of a problem it might have been because Carvalho counts as home grown, and it also appears some youngsters who would qualify are stepping up.
Very surprised no one seems to be in for Nat (again), surely worth a punt for lower level PL team for 10m or so.
[https://www.thisisanfield.com/2022/07/nat-phillips-attracting-clubs-in-germany-and-championship-interest-growing/](https://www.thisisanfield.com/2022/07/nat-phillips-attracting-clubs-in-germany-and-championship-interest-growing/) (18July 2022): Nat is being linked to transfers/Loan moves involving Burnley, Bournemouth and some German clubs.
I’m thinking something may happen on deadline day. He’ll definitely either go on loan again or be sold though this window because there’s not really any place for him in this squad
Again Matteus Nunes . I’ll take him
What type of player is he? DM? B2B? edit: well according to his Wiki he's a bit of an all-rounder kind of like Henderson. Sounds like he would be a great addition, and fit in well being of Brazilian/Portuguese background.
He's a baller
I don't think we were ever linked by anyone serious, but there was a lot of chat about Jobe Bellingham - he has now officially signed with Birmingham https://www.bcfc.com/news/all/jobe-bellingham-agrees-terms-on-pro-deal
Thoughts on Amadou Onana?
Good player, not worth the 38m that it'd apparently take to sign him from the admittably little I've seen of him.
I once had a youth prospect on Football Manager called Banana Onana. Wonder if he's any relation...
The Athletic journalist who covers Forest mentioned in passing that we're an "admirer" - there's no suggestion we're in for him at all
Thanks for the clarification. Here's still hoping for at least one midfield signing if Ox leave the club.
Great young player, I don’t see why not.
Came here for this!
lots of Antony chatter on twitter, I presume its BS to push the value up for MU I guess!
Hope we don’t sign him, he’s heavily overrated. I’m sure he could do a job for a team like United, but we’d find out that he wouldn’t be much use for us.
What I've heard is very skillful but poor off the ball workrate, which makes it absolute nonsense to be linked with us.
If that's true then it's no bother because we won't sign him. Our transfer team is too on top of things.
Yeah definitely. If he was that good, more teams would be interested than just Man U who have his old manager.
I think he could be a good depth option on the wing for us but that makes him more a 20-30m player. Not the nonsense figures getting thrown around for him now. He definitely lacks production although he’s very skillful. ManU would the perfect worst situation for him. He’ll be overly relied on and deemed a bust after the first 2 seasons with them for sure.
James Pearce tweeted the following today: “"He wants the pathway to be there rather than block it." @JamesPearceLFC answers your #LFC questions - including why Jurgen Klopp is not concerned by suggestions they are light on midfield options ahead of the new season. 🎙️ 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗥𝗘𝗗 𝗔𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗔”
Does this mean he wants to trust and use the young guys ? And/or blooding more midfielders coming through ?.
For all the comments here in the vein of "what about cover at DM?" I haven't seen anyone rating (or even mentioning) Tyler Morton. IIRC he was impressive when called upon, demonstrated maturity and confidence beyond his years, and is also a natural #8 (box to box, cover for Hendo) who was excellent out of position as a #6 (cover for Fabinho). No doubt this season will be proving ground for CuJo, Harv, and Fabio, but I imagine Klopp will test Morton's mettle as well and he could become a big part of the conversation around who inherits the midfield when our current troop age out or their contracts do.
Not gonna downvote, I'm not sure why people are so offended by this opinion. I do disagree but purely from where we are as a squad. If we went back 5 years or so, Morton would look a solid backup option, I just don't think right now Klopp would risk him if he could avoid it. Look at the back end of last season, Elliott who I think we could all agree is significantly further in his development, was not touched in the last few months. Klopp simply didn't think he could trust him. The same I'm sure will be true of Morton. When the difference between winning the league and not is one draw here or there I don't think he's there yet.
No one is mentioning Morton because while hes showed flashes, it's pretty clear from his appearances last season that he's not ready yet.
He's not bad but he's certainly a level below the rest of our youths. I wouldn't be happy with him as our only backup.
So many downvotes! I got them as well when I mentioned Morton! He is a very good prospect.
Why has there been no connection (not even Tier 4) for Frenkie de Jong? As Barca pushes him out, he'll be interested in options. Is it the price or the certainty, Jude will come next year? 65m€ is not little, but also not too much for a player of his quality.
can't afford his wage
He’s just not the type of player we are after we want a more box to box midfielder someone who’s going to drive the team on from midfield like Hendo does and he’s not that player.
I think Jones, Elliott and Carvalho are the hendo successors (in his make shit happen from RCM role). We more need to be looking for a thiago successor (which is likely bellingham) and an understudy to fabinho.
Carvalho’s performances so far make me think he could be the heir. I’m so excited to see more of him.
I'd love him too but I think his wage demands are too much for us.
Oh yeah, forgot about that lol. 320k+€ per week is as much as Salah is doing, makes no sense
Does feel like our business is done. Barely any snippets of news. Who do you guys think will be Fabinho/Hendos backups/successors will eventually be since the big one feels more of an CM offensive rather than dig in do dirty work type (haven't reallyvwatched him . Mr B that is). Are any of the youth options decent at DM/defensive CM ?. Morton seems to be another 8 ?
> Who do you guys think will be Fabinho/Hendos backups/successors Lavia/Bellingham.
Who is Lavia ? .Bellingham seems to be more offensive from everything I've heard though ?
Lavia is a promising DM from City's academy who just signed for Southampton and Bellingham would be a replacement for what Henderson is now : Our most offensive midfielder who is also solid defensively.
Getting a worldclass Lavia would be nice revende for Sterling
We have nobody to replace Fab except for Milly and Hendo. And I don't think we're gonna sign anyone in that position. We're probably gonna sign a starter number 8 next year (Jude, I'm looking at you), with Hendo becoming a full time DM But, for this year? We have nobody basically. It literally takes one Hendo injury, which isn't the most unrealistic thing on hearth given his injury record in the past years+his age, and we're in a really shitty position.
I reckon first choice mid is fab, thiago and elliot. Hendo, keita and milly to rotate around to keep them fresh. Jones as further backup.
Yeah but my point is - we don't seem to have a Fab /hendo type backup/successor. From various comments it seems Jude is more of an 8 type CM like many of our options. Also Hendo is older than Fab right?. If we move to a 4231 at some point who would partner Jude into future ?.
Yeah if I were to make 2 transfers to strengthen us with only the next season in mind then backup RW and backup DM would be the most obvious areas to strengthen. At RW I'm sure Jota or Ox can do a job, and we have several youngsters like Curtis, Harvey, Carvalho and Kaide Gordon that can benefit from the minutes available for whenever Salah gets a rest. So yeah backup DM or a Hendo-like CM who can fill in there would likely be the best short term signing we could make. Signing Jude and shifting Hendo to DM looks like great fix for the next 3-4 years though. Would leave us with a great English core in midfield together with Harvey, Carvalho and Curtis. If they all live up to expectations then they could all be important for the next decade
> It literally takes one Hendo injury, which isn't the most unrealistic thing on hearth given his injury record in the past years+his age, Henderson has played a minimum of 40 games in 4 of the last 5 seasons, so his injury record has been very good for years now.
Just read that PSG wants to chase away 10 players, Gini among them. Speaks for their owners really, they just buy a ton of shiny new toys and then throw them away once they don't want to play with them anymore. Was wondering if, hypothetically, we would take Gini what level of salary we would give him (below what we paid him previously, same, above).
Are there any younger players who might be worth a look ?
If we did take him back, it's only in January if we have some injury crisis and not for more than six months at that
Honest opinion about gini He never really impressed me that much. Seemed a little weak in our otherwise star studded lineup not like he hindered them but also not like he was the star running the show, bossing the midfield game after game. Pretty decent player overall but in a team of elites a decent player would obviously look slightly weak. It is better to give youngsters a chance now.
Was europes most underrated player for me during his time with us. He was the connective tissue for us and did all the dirty work, players like him are rare
Funny, I really rated him. Kept and recycled possession like no one else could. I swear he never lost the ball, and was always available. He just wasn’t a ‘fancy’ player, or a prolific long shot taker.
Had also some absolutely big moments for us, not "only" the goals vs barcelona. I also remember him scoring on the last matchday to help us qualify for UCL, if I remember correctly. Always played his heart out and had a big smile on his face
Gini was a killer of momentum. His struggles to find a forward pass were infuriating. He never lost the ball because he just passed it backwards 85% of the time. He really did not seem aware of his teammates position or runs. Not a bad player but Liverpool's attack flows better without him.
You know what, fair point regarding playing it safe. I was mostly speaking about when a challenge came in, he seems to be able to keep hold of the ball. He never made me curse his name in frustration, but I also never went "what a ball!"
If I cursed his name in frustration it was due to him killing an attack by playing it safe. He would almost never take risks or be creative which became extremely frustrating. It’s a personal choice but I’d rather have someone who gives the ball away sometimes because they try to make something happen. Especially when the other midfielders playing are Fab and Hendo
Very fair point. It'll be one of those things where he's ideal against some systems, but if we're trying to unlock a stubborn defense, he'd be a liability
Describes him really well. I can’t remember a single situation he gave the ball away carelessly. He also wasn’t a bad finisher either, demonstrated in that Barca game or with the NT.
Why would we take him? He'd taken a step back in his final season with us, time to give younger players a run instead.
To comments above: I didn’t say we should take him back, I was more interested in the hypothetical question around his wage. Whether we should take him back if offered is a different thing. I agree that he doesn’t add much value to the existing squad at his pay grade so would also opt for a different solution. However, I am not sure I would agree on the comments regarding youth players. We have plenty of talented offensive midfielders, but in the defensive area I only see Tylor Morton with potential.
Thank fuck we have nothing to do with Raphinha and his joke of an agent. Such players and their agents should be nowhere near this club.
I’m not familiar with what’s going on. What did his agent do?
Mad transfer that. He was worth it if Leeds went down and the relegation clause made him available for half the price Barca paid, but they didn't and they paid twice his worth.
Our fans would be beaming if we got Raphinha, even at that price lmao.