A month has passed since the closure of the Premier League season. All the clubs including Liverpool have started doing their business in the transfer window but the future of the French defender Mamadou Sakho remains unclear.
Sakho had been banned by Jurgen Klopp from taking part in the first team preparations after the player allegedly reported late for Liverpool’s pre-season campaign along with a number of disciplinary issues last season. The 27-year old further created a furore by posting a video on Snapchat which sealed his fate.
Despite having a defensive debacle, Klopp stood firm as he went ahead with the pair of Dejan Lovren and Joel Matip leaving Sakho out of any first team action. However, he did have a change of heart once the winter window commenced as he allowed Sakho to leave on loan to Crystal Palace.
Despite being left out for most of the season, Sakho came back very strongly at the Selhurst Park as his solid display in the Eagles backline assured them a decent finish in the English top tier.
Let us take a look at 3 clubs who can make a move for the French star.
Newcastle United
Rafa Benitez’s ongoing search for an accomplished defender for Newcastle United might lead him to Anfield. No one can deny Sakho’s contribution last season as the mighty Frenchman stood tall in the backline for the Eagles and helped churn out a number of impressive results.
Benitez needs a fiery leader for his relatively young defensive setup and Sakho could lead the team commendably from the back. His loan spell under Sam Allardyce was extremely productive and Benitez can have some respite if he does come to the St James Park.
Swansea City
With the lucrative television rights and the prize money last season, every club has been very busy splashing the cash to bring the right kind of player considering the mammoth competitions these days.
Swansea escaped relegation by a whisker last term but their knack of leaking goals needs to be addressed. Liverpool will demand a handsome fee for the French international but given his form and the currently inflated market he could end up as a bargain buy if Paul Clement manages to convince the club hierarchy.
Leicester City
One of the most ageing backline of the current lot. Both Wes Morgan and Robert Huth need to be phased out slowly as age is catching up with them. Sakho is a born leader and along with Harry Maguire could form a solid defensive partnership. The defender needs a stable platform to prove his point and King Power Stadium could be the ideal destination for him.
