We knew Liverpool wanted to sign some midfielders this summer. However, the Reds struggled as they failed to finish in the Premier League’s top four.
But the reinforcements were essential, even from a numbers perspective, as the likes of James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho left.
It was no surprise, then, to see Liverpool move quickly in the transfer market, adding much-needed dynamism and creativity to midfield by activating buyout clauses to bring in Alexis MacAllister from Brighton and Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig.
What we didn’t expect, however, was a change or an absolute overhaul of the entire department – and yet that’s exactly what has happened, with the Reds making the surprising decision to cash in on two starters, Fabinho and captain Henderson, of who often stood in place of the Brazilian in front of the back four.
As a result, at least one more signing is required, a defensive midfielder with considerable skill and stature to tie the entire midfield together. For a long time, Romeo Lavia looked like that favorite player. However, Chelsea now look set to beat the Reds to Lavia’s signature.
It’s a bitter blow, especially considering the Blues have already secured the services of Moises Caicedo ahead of Liverpool this week, and it leaves the club in a seriously tricky position.
The clock is ticking down and the Reds look ‘a million miles’ away from securing the midfielder they so desperately need.
Ahead of what is set to be a frantic final week of the summer, Goal have taken a look at the alternative targets Liverpool could look to sign this summer.
Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City)
Boubacar Kamara (Aston Villa)
Florentino Luis (Benfica)
Joao Palhinha (Fulham)
Sofyan Amrabat (Fiorentina)
Cheick Doucoure (Crystal Palace)
Khephren Thuram (Nice)
Manu Kone (Borussia Monchengladbach)
