Liverpool have been linked with a host of players this summer, some of which have been more realistic than others. We asked several members of the This Is Anfield forums who they would like to see arriving.
Certain areas of the squad were identified as requiring strengthening; most notably up front, wide right, centre midfield, and left back. We didn’t include Fabio Borini in the debate as his arrival looks set to be confirmed imminently anyway.
Here’s the best of the responses.
Jakub Blaszczykowski (Zoky)
Massive work rate, ability to press high, strong body, decent pace, good reactions, very good cross and can pick out safe passes out of tight situations. Doesn’t shy from attacking the box either. Leader on the pitch and plays with passion, proved to be an underrated part of a successful Dortmund side for a couple of seasons now even though he wasn’t always first choice. Last year of his contract and will most probably be willing to leave to try something new elsewhere, I believe a club like us would attract him with the philosophy on and off the pitch. Not maybe always first choice, but potential replacement for Kuyt and someone able to perform in the big games, also positive for Glen Johnson to have a player of his style in front of him.
Matias Suarez (TFC)
Right wing or Forward. Fills a need but also provides depth and versatility. We were linked to him in January and the price was around £10m if I’m not mistaken. There is the worry that with 2 new wingers Sterling won’t get chance, but I feel that since Suarez and Ramirez can be utilized as more than just wingers there will be games for Sterling, or it would allow for him to go on a season long loan to a PL team – something we cannot afford to do with Bellamy and Downing as our only wide players.
Gaston Ramirez (ubermick)
Now seems highly unlikely that this is going to happen, but a countryman of Suarez (thereby increasing his ties to the club), excellent on the ball, and pacey as all hell. Would probably operate on the right, an area of the squad that’s severely lacking, and has been for years now.
Clint Dempsey (Sweeting)
After the failed chase of Sigurdsson it is clear we are looking to sign an attacking midfielder. Dempsey is a goalscoring midfielder with a dynamic and strong style. Similar to Tim Cahill in his prime, would add another dimension to our attack and possibly allow Shelvey to go and get game time on loan.
Joe Allen (mpoletti)
A solid young midfield player who knows Brendan and his system. He could really help Lucas out in allowing the offence to spring into attack.
Benoit Tremoulinas (Zoky)
Loan Jack Robinson out and bring in backup/competition for Enrique, different player to Jose – better technique, much better crossing and overall forward game. Crucial for Rodgers’ 4-2-3-1 system (see also Rafa’s, Klopp’s approach etc., and the importance of having positive full backs) to have on both sides 1 option that is good going forward. Would bring balance to the squad’s options and in the last year of contract as well. No big risk, if it doesn’t work out use his ability to press and maybe have him as an option to play on the wing.
Chiek M’Bengue (Sweeting)
I’m really certain of the need for Robinson to get a full season of football under his belt on loan so if we could get M’Benque in it would allow that to happen, as well as providing competition for Enrique just in case he continues to be horrible as defending next season.
Vurnon Anita (cardiffpete)
Linked heavily last summer, but not anymore …although Newcastle made an approach recently. Highly competent and terrier-like defensive midfielder with very-quick feet and ditto decision making and an eye for a pass. Versatile too and can play LB/RB as well. Could be a cheap (and quality) back-up for Lucas.
To view all the responses, and join in the discussion click here.
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