The habits of Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp are a giveaway that Liverpool will sign Newcastle defender Jamaal Lascelles in this summer transfer window.
Jurgen Klopp is a man who knows what he wants. He knows how he wants Liverpool to play; with pace, pressing and lethal attacking force. He also knows the players he wants to create the side to execute his vision. One such player is Newcastle United captain Jamaal Lascelles.
The recent rumors have been that Liverpool are interested in both Lascelles and Burnley center half James Tarkowski. I am sure the interest in both is genuine but Klopp’s actions earlier in the season suggest it is Lascelles who is the most desired by the manager.
Can’t argue with that. I think there’s a player there with Lascelles though, Klopp was keenly watching him during Newcastle’s warm up the other day.
— Simon (@SimonBrayLFC) March 8, 2018
Gonna predict #llfc will buy another CB in the summer ! Will stick my neck out and say they will try for Jamaal Lascelles based solely on the amount of attention Klopp paid him before & after Newcastle game
— John Henry's Wallet (@LFC_Moneyman) March 15, 2018
As a number of Liverpool fans noticed, Klopp spent significant time focussing on Jamaal Lascelles during the pre-match warmups when Liverpool faced Newcastle at Anfield back in March. He has done that before with players he has gone on to sign; most noticeably Virgil van Dijk and Gini Wijnaldum.
One thing we know about Klopp is that when he wants a player he is relentless – and patient – in his pursuit. The right players are paramount for his system and he does not buy simply to fill a squad place. The drawn out transfers of van Dijk and Naby Keita confirm that singular vision.
Lascelles would be a decent partner for van DIjk and has proven under Rafa Benitez that he can execute a defensive strategy and cut down on mistakes. Rafa does not trust players who are not smart and adaptable. Those qualities will suit Jurgen Klopp as well.
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Interestingly it is the targeting of another captain with high levels of leadership qualities. Virgil van Dijk was the Southampton captain before his move and rumored top target Nabil Fekir from Lyon hold the armband for his side. Leadership is clearly an area that the manager wants to improve in this transfer season.