According to a report from Liverpool Echo, Liverpool defender Joe Gomez is being courted by Al Ittihad, who are looking to strengthen their defence. It is understood that the Reds are facing a dilemma this summer, as they also need to strengthen both their defence and midfield.
Gomez’s Campaign With Liverpool Last Season
Joe Gomez had a mixed 2022/23 season with Liverpool. He started the season strongly, but suffered a knee injury in December that kept him out for several months. He returned to the team in March, but was unable to regain his place in the starting lineup. During the last campaign, the England international had made 28 appearances for the Merseyside outfit, picking up one assist.
The London-born defensive ace did well to average 1.3 tackles, 1.1 interceptions, 2.2 clearances and 0.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was even accurate when distributing the ball from inside his half after completing 86.6% of his attempted passes in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
Should Klopp Sanction His Exit?
Gomez is a good tackler of the ball and can earn possession back for his side on the defensive end of the pitch. He can clear the danger when needed and has the pace to make some important recovering runs at the back. Gomez is primarily a centre-back but can also fill in as a right-back or left-back.
At 26, Gomez has got a lot of room for improvement if he can overcome his injury problems. Gomez’s injury problems have been a major setback in his career. He is a talented player who has the potential to be one of the best defenders in the world. However, he needs to stay fit if he is to realise his full potential.
Gomez is a versatile player who can play at centre-back or right-back, and his departure would leave a hole in Liverpool’s defence. Nonetheless, the Reds are also looking to sign a midfielder, and the sale of Gomez could help them raise funds for that transfer.