Liverpool struggled initially last season under Brendan Rodgers, which resulted in his sacking mid-way through the campaign. Liverpool fans soon had a reason to celebrate though, as Jurgen Klopp was announced as the next manager to take charge at Anfield. The German showed us glimpses of what he can achieve in years to come. This time he will have a full pre-season to prepare his players, something that he didn’t enjoy last year. Klopp led Liverpool into two finals in his six months as manager with a team that he inherited from Rodgers.
Although Livverpool don’t have the resources to compete with teams like Chelsea and Manchester United, they still have to buy new players who can improve the quality of the squad and take the team forward. Sadio Mane has already made his move from the south coast to Liverpool, and it is very likely that he will followed by a host of players that Klopp decided to spend his money on. The manager seemed to have turned his attention on Newcastle midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum after efforts to sign Piotr Zielinski failed last week.
The 25-year-old has emerged as a surprise target for Reds manager Jurgen Klopp, who is determined to bolster his midfield this summer. Wijnaldum only moved to Newcastle last summer in a 14.5 million pound deal, but may be keen to leave after seeing the club relegated to the Champions.The former PSV star had a mixed season at Newcaslte, scoring 11 times in 40 matches. He is about to enter the prime of career, therefore it would make sense for him to move to a club in the Premier League, which can fully utilize his potential.
Newcastle have valued their player at £27 million, but Liverpool are confident they can settle on a deal in the regionof £20 million. Although the German manager has brought in four new players in this summer, he is aware of the fact that he will need to add a few more players to his squad before they are ready to compete against the best in the continent. Wijnaldum is a versatile midfielder who can deployed on either of the flanks or in a more central role. However his arrival might mean a summer exit for Joe Allen, who is entering the last year of his contract and is being pursued by many clubs after an impressive performance in the Euro 2016.
Wijnaldum will be terrific squad player who will increase the competition in the midfield region. He is an excellent creative force with a calm head in front of goal, and crucially for Liverpool, has the stamina to fit into Jurgen Klopp’s high pressing style. Provided Newcastle don’t hold out for a big bid, Wijnaldum could be an important addition to the Liverpool squad and could help in challenging for a top four place.