Liverpool want to go big in January.
The Mirror, via Paisley Gates, has reported that the Reds want to sign a Premier League duo for a massive £90 million.
We’re all aware of the horrible defensive issues we’re currently experiencing. The back spasms Joel Matip experienced against Fulham means that Jurgen Klopp might have to construct his centre-back pairing for the Tottenham Hotspur match out of two midfielders.
Joe Gomez and Virgil van Dijk could be out for the rest of the season, and that means Liverpool could turn their attention towards signing another central defender.
The Mirror’s report signals that Brighton star Ben White is back on the shopping list, as is his teammate Yves Bissouma.
We know all about White, who had an excellent season with Leeds United in the Championship and has started his Premier League career strongly. But who is Bissouma?
The Seagulls signed him in 2018 from Lille in a deal worth £15.21m, said Transfermarkt. The defensive midfielder has been a really important part of Brighton’s side for the past two years, making 68 appearances for the coastal club.
Recruiting a defensive midfielder would be an interesting move by Klopp. It would certainly signal that Liverpool don’t expect van Dijk or Gomez back any time soon, which would mean Fabinho spending an entire campaign as a centre-back.
It may also show us that Klopp doesn’t expect Matip to play a huge part moving forward. His injury record is terrible, and Jordan Henderson may have to step back into defence on occasion.
Concerns about Naby Keita, Thiago and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s fitness have decimated midfield ranks, too. In the short-term, Bissouma would definitely be a bonus for the squad.
However, would he really be a long-term option? Potentially, if Gini Wijnaldum decides to call time on his Anfield career.
White is another matter entirely. He’ll have been heavily scouted, and looks to be a perfect fit for Liverpool.
Spending £90 million in January doesn’t seem very likely though. I’d be very surprised if Klopp sanctioned a deal of that value.