Liverpool’s Jurgen Klopp has been as busy as most other managers in the Premier League as he prepares for his first Champions League campaign in charge of an English club. The German gaffer is looking to add some quality players to his lineup but is also looking to be smart in the transfer window, trying to avoid overspending on players.
And his reported interest in former Manchester City man Gael Clichy is a testament to it. The 31-year old French international has been one of the most consistent players for the Etihad outfit, since his move to the club back in 2011. Primarily a left-back, the 31-year-old has been one of the most consistent players for the club and has also been used regularly by Pep Guardiola in the recent campaign.
Known for his strength and tackling abilities, Clichy is a solid full-back who offers width when needed but is happy to sit back to keep his side’s defence away from danger. He is an excellent passer and is a good outlet on the wing but in his time at Manchester City, he has shown that he can frustrate even the best of the wingers in the league and also in Europe.
He was out of a contract after the season was over and Guardiola’s interest in AS Monaco’s Benjamin Mendy has seen him ignore the French defender completely. He was released as a free agent and reports were all over the media that Liverpool, who have their own issues in the left-back role, are looking at the veteran as a possible option.
The Reds have used James Milner in that position to good effect but need a genuine full-back to fill that role, if they are to compete for a title or in Europe. They are sure to sell Alberto Moreno and Gael Clichy could have been a decent choice but the Liverpool Echo has today squashed all such rumours, stating that the Reds have no interest in the former City player.
With experience in the league and in general on his side, Clichy could have been a decent solution for the left-back problems at Anfield, albeit for a short term. Letting him join another club will mean that Liverpool have to find a genuine full-back, who can walk into the first team next season and help them in the best competition on the planet.
There are very few options who can boast of such a potential and letting go of someone who could have come close, could come back to haunt. Liverpool were reportedly ready to offer him a two-year deal and surely, the 31-year-old could have helped the club immensely, even if it is in a mentor’s role in what could be a crucial period in the club’s history.
