In a recent report, ESPN has claimed that Liverpool are keeping tabs on Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Yves Bissouma ahead of the January transfer window. It is believed that the Reds manager Jurgen Klopp is eyeing the Mali international as a potential replacement for Georginio Wijnaldum who has just over six months left to run in his contract at Anfield (via ESPN).
Bissouma’s Impressive Season In English Football This Season
The 24-year-old has taken great strides towards improving himself at the American Express Community Stadium as he has established himself as a key component of Graham Potter’s midfield. Bissouma has featured in 12 matches for the Seagulls this term, scoring one goal in the process in the Premier League.
The Issia-born midfield ace has done well to influence the game at both ends of the field after averaging 3.3 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 1.8 clearances, 1.5 shots and 1.6 dribbles per game in the English top-flight. He has also distributed the ball relatively well based on his pass completion rate of 85.8% in league football (stats via whoscored).
It seems like Brighton have unearthed a gem in Bissouma if he can continue to maintain his recent form throughout the remainder of the campaign. Hence, it is no wonder that a top club like Liverpool are monitoring his progress this season.
What Will The Mali International Add To Jurgen Klopp’s Side?
Bissouma has decent pace in his locker and is always willing to cover a lot of ground at the centre of the park. He has shown good defensive awareness to sense the danger quickly and make some important defensive contributions at the back.
The 14-time Mali international is proficient at timing his tackles well to earn the ball back for his side and usually packs a lot of venom with his strikes from long range. He is a tidy passer of the ball and can also make some lung-bursting sprints with the ball from midfield.
Should The Reds Launch A Bid For Bissouma In January?
At the moment, Liverpool would be better off trying everything in their power to secure Wijnaldum’s services for the long-run. If the Merseyside giants fail to do so, then it makes sense for them to bring in someone like Bissouma who is quite similar to the Dutchman in the way he conducts himself in midfield.
Either way, Klopp should consider waiting until the end of this season before deciding whether to launch a move for the Brighton star. Recruiting Bissouama in January doesn’t make any sense as Liverpool have already got plenty of depth in their midfield department with the likes of Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson, Naby Keita, Curtis Jones, Thiago Alcantara and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain all fighting for a first-team place under Klopp this season.
