Liverpool FC are now reportedly eyeing a move for Ligue 1 midfielder Benjamin Andre as Jurgen Klopp eyes an alternative following their failure to get in Naby Keita from Red Bull Leipzig despite numerous attempts. Andre has been a consistent performer for Stade Rennais FC for quite some time now and though not as vibrant as Keita, will definitely be a quality addition to the side.
Liverpool had to sell their long serving midfield general Lucas Leiva this summer to Napoli and Jurgen Klopp found it increasingly difficult to hand him regular chances with the likes of Emre Can, Georginio Wijnaldum and Jordan Henderson executing the task decently. However, Can’s contract with Liverpool ends next season and Keita’s failure has given Klopp enough reason to believe that there is no guarantee that he will get an immediate replacement next summer.
Though Klopp has an extra option in James Milner now who can hold the midfield well with Andrew Robertson coming in the left-back’s position, the veteran midfielder is ageing and Klopp’s uber-attacking tactics might not suit him at all.
Liverpool would be challenging on four fronts this season and Klopp needs more depth on his bench to keep their intensity constant in the weekend fixtures too. And someone consistent like Andre would suit them immensely, who hardly boasts of fancy skills or footwork, but excels at his job.
Having competed for an international side like France who have the best depth among all the other countries, it was obvious that his chances in national colours were dim. Andre has never been outstanding in his style of play, but always involved in the game and is known for playing a significant role amidst all the crucial movements.
His clean injury history is also worth a look. The academy product of Ligue 2 side AC Ajaccio, Andre has hardly missed games in his entire career. He has played over 25 games in almost every professional season in the past nine years. The versatile player can play on the flanks as well and managed to provide three assists in 33 appearances for Stade Rennais FC last season.
Liverpool have brought in the likes of Mohamed Salah and Dominic Solanke to keep their attacking threat constant. However, attack was never a problem for them last season; it was rather loose defending that cost them some big games and consequently affected the season.
And a holding midfielder like Andre could provide the perfect transition from their defence to attack. With his superior technique and brilliant ball distribution, Liverpool could get a real bargain. They have already made an initial bid £15.4 million and Rennes are expected to agree in that region.
