Our Liverpool fans here in the Transfer Tavern are hoping not to see the back of any more of their star players in the upcoming transfer window. Indeed, it’s not something they like watching, having seen the likes of Luis Suarez, Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho leave in recent windows.

Now, following the departure of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January, FSG will be looking to secure their best players to long-term deals as soon as possible. Indeed, following suggestions from pundits making their way around the bar today that Bobby Firmino could be a target for German giants Bayern Munich, but it could all hinge on Real Madrid moving for their talisman Robert Lewandowski in the summer.

Our regulars believe that if Klopp can keep hold of many of his top players in the summer, with the likes of Firmino and Mo Salah being the main targets for other clubs – there’s a real sense that this team could evolve together.

With Firmino’s goal haul of 14 this season in the Premier League, Klopp has a player that has gradually improved since 2015 at Anfield and is the pinnacle of the team’s success. However, our landlord thinks that by losing the Brazilian this summer could be Klopp’s worst nightmare, and here are TWO reasons why…

Long-term build

Klopp has moulded and worked with this set of players over the years and has created something that is not only pleasing to the eyes of the Liverpool fans, but looking like it can bring them some much-awaited trophies.

By losing Firmino it would mean losing another part of the infamous fab-four within six months, and if the Reds want to be a serious title contender next season then the likes of the Brazilian are crucial to the teams’ development. He’s so important to their side and gives the Reds something different up front, as well as one of the most complete frontmen in Europe right now.

Balance of the team

Liverpool’s front three is a well-oiled machine that thrives and flourishes off each other. The centre-piece of the show is Firmino, who not only can find the net but brings his two other teammates into the fold to create a dangerous and exciting attacking movement.

Allowing the forward to leave, would, in turn, leave the Anfield outfit in disarray and not only having to replace Coutinho’s presence from January but the other Brazilian also. Without him, neither Mo Salah nor Sadio Mane have anything to feed off, leaving Liverpool’s attack disjointed.