Liverpool are reportedly interested in signing highly rated Schalke 04 midfielder Leon Goretzka. The German international’s contract runs down at the end of the season and is reluctant to sign a new deal with The Royal Blues. Schalke will be hoping to offload their talisman in January to ensure they get a good price.
The deal, however, won’t be an easy one to pull off for Jurgen Klopp given that other Premier League clubs too are in the hunt and are fighting for his signature. German similarity between the two could make Liverpool an even more attractive destination.
Liverpool’s midfield is starting to look world class. Everywhere one looks around there is talent in abundance. With the arrival of Naby Keita, the Merseysiders will have a deadly new outlook going into next season. But possible departures of Emre Can and Philippe Coutinho leaves vacancy to be filled in by Klopp.
It is a move that aids both parties, Schalke 04 who are waiting for the right offer on the table, and Liverpool on the other hand looking to cover up their possible departures. Liverpool and Premier League could be handed a boost following Germany National Team’s general manager Oliver Bierhoff’s comment regarding the future of German talents. Bierhoff inferred that Goretzka has chosen the Premier League to be his next destination in a press conference.
The Confederations Cup Silver Boot holder has picked up right where he left scoring 4 in his 9 outings in the Bundesliga this campaign. At the age of just 22, Goretzka is touted to be one of Germany’s biggest upcoming talents. He is an epitome for the centre midfield position as he has the eye for a pass and the ruthlessness in front of goal. Providing a hand in the team’s attack is not just his game.
He ensures protection to his defenders by sticking to his defensive duties quite well. His 2.6 tackles per game and 1.9 interception per game displays the German’s work ethic without the ball. Standing at 6ft 2in, Goretzka’s aerial presence could be a blessing in disguise for Liverpool.
It is not just these individual qualities that make Goretzka a huge proposition for Liverpool, but the fact that it is tailor made for Klopp’s style makes him even more special. He is an upgrade to Emre Can undoubtedly and a huge asset to have keeping in mind his young age.
However, the deal hangs in the balance with Arsenal and Tottenham breathing down Liverpool’s neck. The unavailability of Champions League football at the Emirates might just bring the contest to the London club and the Merseysiders.
Should Klopp prioritize a move for the German starlet?
