Liverpool are working with a largely complete squad ahead of Sunday’s visit to Chelsea to kick off their Premier League season.
There are currently few defensive-minded players in Jurgen Klopp’s midfield ahead of Sunday’s game, with presenter Stefan Bajcetic moving to Thiago Alcantara are not yet ready to return after injuries ended their 2022-23 campaign prematurely.
Klopp has used new signings Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboslzai together in an attacking 4-2-3-1 pre-season, a formation that would not be without risk against Chelsea.
Trent Alexander-Arnold has been tested in the midfield role he shone in England earlier this summer, while Curtis Jones is another option following the departures of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho.
Liverpool expected starting roster: Alisson; Alexander-Arnold, Konate, Van Dijk, Robertson; Jones, MacAllister, Szoboszlai; Salah, Jota, Diaz
Injuries: Thiago, Bajcetic
Doubt: None
Time and date: 4:30 p.m. BST, Sunday, August 13, 2023
Location: Stamford Bridge
More news………
Roméo Lavia’s alternative has been found and contacted by Liverpool amid a $60 million message.
Liverpool transfer news: The Reds are exploring alternatives amidst their latest offer for Roméo Lavia. They are also said to be retaining interest in a $60 million term option.
With less than two weeks left to go into the new season, time is running out for Liverpool if they are to sort out their squad in time for Chelsea.
With the confirmation of Fabinho’s departure and the continuation of Brazil’s Jordan Henderson to Saudi Arabia, the Reds’ need for new midfielders has once again grown, and it’s not the only position needing reinforcements.
Jürgen Klopp will also know his side could use a new defensive addition, but with the unexpected departure of two of his senior operators in the center of the park, attention has shifted back to midfield.
Roméo Lavia looks like the most likely option to join before the start of the new season, although Liverpool are stalling the Southampton lad’s approach. Looks like alternatives are being sought if he fails to land it.
And despite the obvious need for midfielders and defenders, the Reds continue to be associated with a particular attacking option.
Romeo Lavia (Southampton) and Andre (Fluminense)
According to Sky Sports’ Melissa Reddy, Liverpool have made an improved offer for Roméo Lavia but have also identified Fluminense midfielder André as a possible alternative.
The new offer for Lavia is said to be closer to Southampton’s asking price, but still below the initial $51m (£40m/€47m) excluding surcharges. The Reds would consider other options if they feel the Saints’ valuation remains overstated, including Andre’s. His club has been officially contacted by Liverpool.
Liverpool.com says: With less than two weeks left to start the season, Liverpool really need to go one step further and find a replacement for Fabinho. You can understand why the club think the fee is excessive, but at the same time they need to strike a deal for Lavia.
As for André, it would be a surprise if Liverpool signed a player straight from South America, and more so as an alternative to Lavia. Having lost Fabinho and Henderson, he should definitely be considered as another option alongside the teenager. Federico Chiesa (Juventus)
Liverpool remain interested in Federico Chiesa, according to La Gazzetta Dello Sport (via Paisley Gates).
According to the Italian outlet, Juventus are ready to sack the 25-year-old if given an “indispensable” offer, while Liverpool are “vigilant” about the situation. A recent Corriere dello Sport report suggested Juventus would seek compensation of around $60m (£47m/€55m).
Says Liverpool.com: While it’s clear Liverpool have higher priorities to address, the links to Chiesa continue to emerge. Simply put, it’s an arrangement that makes virtually no sense on any level. The Italy international has a poor injury record, Liverpool are already well-placed up front and there’s virtually no chance the Reds will spend $60m after first sorting out their midfield and defensive needs. If Juventus want to get rid of them, they will have to look elsewhere.
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