Liverpool transfers: The 5 best alternatives to Naby Keita
By David Gate
Leon Goretzka
Many Liverpool fans probably knew very little about Leon Goretzka before this summer’s Confederations Cup. As Reds tuned in to watch Emre Can, his international teammate caught the eye. A dynamic box-to-box midfielder Goretzka is the player on this list who is the most like Naby Keita in ability and gift set. If I could chose one of these players to get it would be him.
The tall Schalke midfielder is a player able to impose himself on a game at both ends of the field. He has the kind of flexibility and winning mentality that Jurgen Klopp will absolutely love. Whereas Keita would give our midfield a buzzing energy, Goretzka would give it an imperious solidity.
When he defends he resembles Nemanja Matic; more of a wall than a person. Yet when he attacks he reminds me of Kaka; striding forward with pace and purpose. The combination of those traits would give Klopp a fantastic set of central options. Emre Can, Jordan Henderson and Goretzka form a fearsome trio. It would also allow us to keep Coutinho further forward where he is most dangerous.
The issue with this transfer is Bayern Munich. They hoover up every German talent from the Bundesliga whether they need them or not. They currently have 783* central midfielders (*may not be accurate).
The addition of Tolisso is what is allowing them to let go of Renato Sanches. Bayern are looking to seal a deal for him to join them next summer. Perhaps Klopp can get in there and convince of more first team opportunities at Anfield next season.