Liverpool would be desperately wanting the season to end as soon as possible given the condition of the squad at the moment. The injury-hit Reds are hanging by a thread being reduced to their bare bones, revealing clearly how important it is to beef up next summer.
Liverpool’s over-reliance on certain individuals have been a hot topic of debate this season. The Reds seemed to have struggled hugely without the likes of Sadio Mane, Phillipe Coutinho and Adam Lallana, which has prompted many to question manager Jurgen Klopp’s decision of not having a good bench.
The Reds maintain their position in the top four as of now, though playing two games more than Manchester United and one more than Arsenal. And given the opponents they are to face in their remaining games, the Reds can really see themselves in Europe next season.
Now with the team getting ready for a more hectic schedule next season, numerous ship-ins are expected during the summer transfer window. And apart from solving their defensive crisis, one of the biggest requirements for Liverpool is a perfect playmaker. And if reports are to be believed, the Reds have locked on to Schalke’s Max Meyer as their number one target next summer.
The 21-year-old German international hasn’t had a season to remember with the Bundesliga side with the club unwilling to offer him a new contract. He has managed one goal and three assists in 25 league outings. Schalke sporting director Christian Heidel has clearly stated to German news let Bild that Meyer will not yet be given a new deal at the club, “At the moment it does not make any sense to think about it. Max has to convince the coach that he belongs in the starting 11.”
This helps Liverpool’s pursuit hugely. The number 10 has only one year left on his deal with Schalke and any approach for him will definitely lead the club to sell him this summer. Meyer’s talent is unquestioned. One of the brightest German prospects, Meyer is a strong individual who loves to have the ball at his feet.
His dribbling abilities have been unparalleled at times and his offensive approach to the game makes him very much a Jurgen Klopp player. Primarily a number 10, Meyer can be equally effective from the flanks owing to his pace on the ball and relentless chasing of defenders. Though finishing has been one of his concerns, the number of chances he creates makes up for it and he looks like definite Liverpool material.
