Reds fans here in the Tavern are eager for their side to dispose of some of the more fringe players in their side, as they look to make up the hefty sum paid for Virgil Van Dijk.
Liverpool fans are delighted that they’ve finally captured a world-class central-defender that could have eradicated all those silly errors so far this season.
According to reports Southampton have agreed a £75 million fee for their central-defender Virgil Van Dijk to make the switch to Anfield, in a transfer that makes him the most expensive defender in history.
Of course, it’s all joy for Liverpool fans and Jurgen Klopp himself after landing a man they’ve been chasing since the summer months. But for current players at the club this may spell a possible end to their Reds career, or a shortage of game-time moving forward.
With the defensive-woes that have already caused for many points to be dropped from promising positions so far this campaign, errors will start to play on the defenders’ minds.
Therefore, with Jurgen Klopp still on the hunt for a possible top 4 spot, while going on in search of a first trophy in charge he’ll be looking to add some more additions to the list.
So without further ado, here’s a look at THREE players that should be fearing their future at the club after the signing of the £75 million man.
Dejan Lovren
The 28-year-old central-defender was beyond impressive during his days at St Mary’s, most memorably for scoring the winner at Anfield back in 2013.
But having made the switch to Merseyside he’s been far from the player that Brendan Rodgers signed for £20 million back in 2014.
Indeed, dropping points from winning positions is something Liverpool have been experts at this season, often seeing the Croatian take the blame for many of their disappointing slip-ups this campaign.
However, with Virgil Van Dijk joining the side there’s all the more reason for the central-defender to be worried, as according to reports Klopp has stated that he will drop the defender in place of the Dutchman.
Simon Mignolet
The Belgian shot-stopper was signed from Sunderland with high expectations after displaying some breathtaking performances.
But as players often do, he’s choked under the pressure of a Liverpool fan-base that’s hungry for success, after his goalkeeping displays over the past couple of seasons have caused for Klopp to swap between himself and Loris Karius.
Indeed, his recent blunders against Arsenal that cost them a winning position just goes to highlight their desperate need for a goalkeeper, with his future at Liverpool very much on the line.
After splashing £75 million on Virgil Van Dijk it gives the Belgian all the more reason to be fearful, as it just goes to show that the board aren’t afraid to provide the resources to replace under-performing players.
Ragnar Klavan
Although he’s impressed during the festive period after filling in for the injured Joel Matip, he’s struggled against some of the better sides at times with a lack of Premier League experience showing.
Very much holding the squad title of a ‘back-up’ player he’s managed to make 17+ appearances for the Reds this season, which does show the belief that the German has in the defender’s ability.
However, due to the recent signing of Virgil van Dijk, he will be forced to the bench, and may even sit behind Dejan Lovren in the pecking order with Joel Matip already an established starter.
So, with Klopp looking to improve on his side even further with the financial backing firmly behind him. Who’s to say they won’t acquire another defender before the end of January?
Reds fans, thoughts?
