Liverpool FC have a midfield problem, with Jurgen Klopp and fans alike keen to reinforce.
With injury prone midfielders such as Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita, and it being unfair to rely on young, and ageing, players such as Harvey Elliot and James Milner respectively, it is clear investment is needed.
So, who do Liverpool need to pump some much-needed energy into the midfield? Ben Wade looks at five possible options.
Naby Keita
While reinforcements are a must, and despite his terrible injury record, Naby Keita could limit Liverpool’s spending in 2023.
Having returned to training this week, the Guinea international’s flare, and technical ability can inspire the rest of the squad.
Keita is certainly capable of performing at the top level, scoring big goals in the Champions League against Atletico Madrid and FC Porto.
With some determination and hard work, he still has time to live up to that £50 million price tag.
Konrad Laimer
Konrad Laimer was heavily linked to Liverpool in the summer, and it’s no surprise.
Being able to play as a number six or eight, his versatility is perfect for Klopp’s system. At 25 years old, he could be a solid replacement for the ageing James Milner and Jordan Henderson.
With his contract at RB Leipzig up in the summer of 2023, he would be a cheaper option for the Reds and provide some younger legs into the ageing midfield.
If pulled off, it would be a shrewd signing by FSG.
Youri Tielemans
Another player whose contract is up in the summer of 2023 is Leicester’s Youri Tielemans.
Having been linked to Liverpool for several seasons, next summer would be the perfect time to finally make the move.
Premier League proven, Tielemans would be a brilliant source of creativity in the midfield. With Thiago often struggling for fitness, the Belgian star would take a lot of pressure off the Spaniard.
Tielemans has all the tools to thrive at a club like Liverpool. His FA Cup winning goal in 2021 is more than enough to prove he can deliver on the big stage.
Declan Rice
While seemingly destined for a move to Chelsea, Liverpool could pull the rug from underneath the Blues and steal one of England’s highest potential midfielders.
The West Ham captain has been the standout performer for the Hammers the past two seasons. His power, energy and mentality would be a lethal attribute in Klopp’s team.
Rice will be entering the last year of his contract in 2023, possibly forcing West Ham to lower their £150 million price tag. Suddenly a move to Merseyside looks more realistic for Liverpool fans.
Jude Bellingham
One of the hottest prospects in football, Jude Bellingham has all the makings of a world class player.
Captaining Dortmund in the Champions League this season, with three goals to show so far, his form is scary for a player his age.
Seemingly Liverpool’s number one target in 2023, the Reds will have to move quickly to land the England star ahead of the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester City.
The £100 million asking price is very uncharacteristic of Liverpool to pursue. But at the age of just 19, Bellingham could lead Liverpool’s midfield for the next decade.
