The Liverpool fans in the Transfer Tavern think that their side is in a good position to impress this season…
A shock demolition at the hands of Man City aside, the Reds have made a good start to the season. Domestically, they look strong, whilst their return to the Champions League has left fans feeling very excited indeed.
However, it’s clear that Jurgen Klopp’s team is far from perfect. A number of positions look weak, and this is particularly true of the Liverpool defence. Indeed, with the likes of Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip facing very little competition this term, it’s something that Jurgen Klopp needs to look at.
Clearly, a new central defender will be a priority in January, and our landlord can think of nobody better than £27m-rated Virgil van Dijk.
Of course, his future has been under the microscope in recent months, with Liverpool said to have been keen over the summer, but a move didn’t happen after the Reds released a statement in an effort to calm tapping-up fears. By January, though, that bad blood may have dissipated, and the Saints may be more receptive to a big money sale in that case.
For van Dijk’s part, the Dutch defender has cemented himself as one of the Premier League’s best, offering technical skill, quality on the ball and impenetrable defensive acumen – making him perfect for Liverpool. Southampton’s lack of European football will also mean that he is available for the Champions League knockout rounds should Liverpool progress.
There is a real lack of direction and leadership at the back. Simply put, Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip are not good enough. Van Dijk would immediately come in and make the entire defence improve – and that isn’t something that the Reds should ignore.
Their last move for the Dutchman ended in failure, but in January they should try one more time. They’ll likely have to pay over his £27 million valuation, but he’ll be worth every penny. Van Dijk is the final piece to Klopp’s puzzle.
Liverpool fans – thoughts?
Let us know below!
