Liverpool midfield plan could be turned upside down by key departures

The last few days have been a whirlwind of breaking news around the Liverpool midfield. Jordan Henderson has seemingly been swayed by Steven Gerrard and quadrupling his weekly wages at Al-Ettifaq. This was followed by Al-Ittihad putting in a big money offer for Fabinho.

While the club has said this summer’s main focus would be rebuilding the midfield, that was around the idea that the only major names going out were James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

However, as a result of the power of the Saudi League’s endless funds, big teams across Europe have been raided this summer for some of their biggest names.

When Liverpool secured the signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai in swift and confident fashion, there were many that thought the midfield could be set for the coming season. A 3rd incoming would be nice, but 2/3 of the puzzle was already done so no need to rush.

I don’t think the club or Jurgen Klopp even considered the idea that their Captain would be so easily wooed. In addition, last season aside, Fabinho has been one of the best defensive midfielders in world football since he arrived at Anfield.

The midfield was seemingly set and ready to roll after Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott also starred at the U-21 Euros.

If one, or both of Henderson and Fabinho were to leave the club this summer, things might be back to square one in the midfield. It’s one thing to let bit part and rotational players walk out on free transfers.

But Fab and Hendo were crucial pieces to the midfield. To potentially lose both of them this summer could see an almost entire new midfield swap before next season. This would leave Thiago as the only true veteran in the middle of the park that would still be here.

Yet, even Thiago has popped up in transfer rumors as well.

What was planned as a midfield infusion into the existing players, might very well turn into an all-out overhaul.

There are signs the club is already pivoting as they are reportedly reopening their interest in Moises Caicedo and Manu Kone among others.

Both players would be marvelous additions, but Caicedo, while significantly more expensive, would at least come with Premier League experience. Kone is battling an injury he picked up at the U-21 Euros but still projects very highly as a midfield talent.

If Liverpool decide to pull the trigger and ship out two key veterans, including their captain, you can bet there will be a contingency plan already in motion. It would not be sensible otherwise.

What was a smooth and efficient early transfer window for the club could very well turn chaotic as the Saudi League runs wild in the market.

The next 48 hours will be very interesting to follow. There is a firm 40 million GBP bid for Fabinho and Henderson’s fee is still being negotiated.

One thing is for sure, this won’t be the end of the midfield revamp after all, it might just be getting started.