According to SportBILD, as cited by Talksport, Liverpool are interested in the services of Kai Havertz. The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder has recently opened up about his future, with Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona also keen on securing his signature. However, it is believed that Leverkusen value him at around €100 million.
Havertz is one of Europe’s best young players
Havertz has been a part of the Leverkusen youth department since 2010. And after gradually making his way through the ranks, he was promoted to the first-team in 2016. The youngster made his breakthrough into professional football in his debut season, featuring in 24 league matches.
He has since become a vital part of Die Werkself’s creative department, notably making 30 appearances the following campaign. However, it was Havertz’s performances last season that really made him one of the most sought-after youngsters in Europe.
The 20-year-old scored a whopping 17 goals in 34 matches, helping Leverkusen qualify for Champions League next season. He was also the most productive midfielder in the league while his performances earned him his first call-up to the German national team back in September.
What can he offer to the table?
Havertz is predominantly a playmaker who is blessed with immense technical quality. His exquisite control over the ball allows him to act as the ball-carrier in half-spaces, thus easing his team’s transition play. The youngster attained a pass completion rate of 87% last season while averaging one key pass per game.
Arguably the most significant asset in Havertz’s game is his willingness to test the goalkeeper. The 20-year-old amassed 87 shots on goal last season, which is among the best in the league. Furthermore, he can be utilised as a pressing machine in the final third, thanks to his aggression and eagerness to win back possession for his team.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
Should Liverpool make a move for Havertz?
Havertz will undoubtedly be a better option than Coutinho in Liverpool’s bid to sign a creative midfielder this summer. This is mainly because the Leverkusen midfielder is more suited to Jurgen Klopp’s Gegenpressing philosophy at Anfield.
As mentioned earlier, Havertz loves to close down opponents, which could tune in well with Klopp’s leeway-oriented pressing scheme in midfield. Furthermore, his ability to carry the ball across half-spaces could solve Liverpool’s midfield problems, especially with the reliable Fabinho occupying the number six role.
He can be deployed in the extra midfield slot in Klopp’s 4-3-3. It’s a boon for the club that Havertz’s preferred role of a number ten doesn’t clash with their star attackers in Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane.
The German international has already shown that he is capable of thriving at the bigger club. Liverpool, in that regard, could help fulfil his potential and will provide him with the ideal platform to showcase his talents to the footballing world.
