It is no secret that Borussia Dortmund midfielder Mahmoud Dahoud was the prime target of Jürgen Klopp since the summer and the Reds were likely to pursue their interest in the German wonderkid once again in January. However, a recent report from The Daily Mail claims that Liverpool won’t rival Jürgen Klopp’s former club Borussia Dortmund for the signature of the Syria-born midfielder in January.
The interest of the Reds seems to have cooled down as Klopp is likely to look elsewhere now. Here are three players Liverpool could turn to as alternatives to the German under-21 international.
Leon Goretzka
Klopp knows German footballers inside out from his time at Borussia Dortmund and must be well-known with the quality of a player like Leon Goretzka. Liverpool raided Schalke this summer only for the signature of Joel Matip and they could do the same once again in order to add more quality to their midfield.
The 21-year-old has everything you want from a midfielder. He is big and strong, a brilliant passer of the ball and boasts a gifted technique which coupled with his versatility, makes him even a better player. Capable of playing as a number six, number eight, number ten or even as a winger, Goretzka could be one hell of a signing from the Reds.
Mateo Kovacic
The Croatian wonderkid is finally getting much-deserved playing time for Real Madrid this season but mostly due to the constant injury crisis to their midfielders. As soon as Real Madrid have their first-choice midfield trio of Casemiro, Kroos and Modric back, Kovacic is likely to languish on the bench once again. A dynamic, creative and flamboyant midfielder like him seems to be a perfect fit for the way Liverpool play.
Saul Niguez
Having a player like Saul Niguez at the club is a blessing for any team in the world. The 21-year-old is as versatile as one could be. He is naturally a number eight but is doing so well for Simeone’s side from the right flank. The Spanish international can also play in defensive midfield, attacking midfield, centre forward and even as a central defender.
As you expect from a Spaniard, Saul is blessed with an excellent ability on the ball and possesses good technique. His passing ability is top-notch and he can play killer passes, splitting opponents’ defence. Atletico Madrid are not having a particularly good season this time out and Liverpool should use this to their advantage.
