Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp would have been a little bit taken aback this week when target Mario Gotze sensationally ruled out a transfer away from the Allianz Arena this summer.
The German was thought to be a top transfer priority for the Reds, but with the former Dortmund man set to stay in Germany, Liverpool will have to turn their attention elsewhere.
The need to improve at Anfield has never been greater and if Klopp wants to build a Liverpool squad that can compete for the title or domestic glory, he’ll need to get the right players in, and attacking midfield is a big priority. Whilst both Roberto Firmino and Philippe Coutinho have both been solid this year, squad depth is essential if you’re to challenge at the top.
So with Gotze ruled out, here are FIVE options Liverpool should be targeting instead of the German.
Oscar
The Chelsea midfielder is a solid option and generally a sure-fire performer. Whilst this season hasn’t been his most fruitful in England, the Brazilian international has still managed eight goals in 37 appearances in a fledgling Chelsea side.
With Antonio Conte coming in this summer, the futures of many first-team players is well and truly up in the air, and Oscar could be left on the fringes of the squad. A move to Anfield? Who knows!
Isco
This Real Madrid playmaker has struggled for competitive game time at the Bernabeu this term, frequently being used as an option from the bench rather than as a full-time starter. Competition at one of the best clubs in Spain is always going to be intense, but at 24, this is the time for Isco to well and truly shine. If he wants to cement a place in the Spain squad for years to come, he needs to be playing regularly and Liverpool might be the answer for him.
Sadio Mane
The Premier League record holder for the fastest ever hat-trick, Sadio Mane has been on fire for Southampton this season.
15 goals and a flurry of assists later, and the Senegal international has done his reputation no harm with a an extremely impressive season, helping the Saints into Europe along the way. He can play on the wing or behind the striker and would be an excellent addition to Jurgen’s side.
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Nabil Fekir
Unfortunately for this talented Frenchman, he’s was ruled out for a large part of the season just gone with a long-term injury but you only have to rewind a few months to see what the 22-year-old can do.
He was the 2015 Ligue 1 Young Player of the Year, in a season that saw him feature of 40 times, scoring 15 goals. He generally plays behind the striker and has an excellent ability to bring his colleagues into the game. Keep an eye on this talented youngster.
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Nathan Redmond
A former Birmingham City youngster, Nathan Redmond has been one of Norwich City’s most consistent performers for a few years now. He’s quick, can cross in an excellent ball and loves an effort from long range. He’d be something different, for sure.
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