Liverpool’s squad could be trimmed down even more this summer as Jurgen Klopp looks to offload a number of players.
Last season, Klopp used 39 different players throughout the campaign as the Reds looked to rotate during a long European and League Cup run.
However, after failing to reach Europe this season, Klopp is looking to release a number of his players who he considers to be on the ‘fringe’ of regular first team action.
The Mirror are reporting Klopp has warned Lucas he may not get much game time if he chooses to stay and has hinted at several player’s departures.
The German boss has reportedly told Christian Benteke, Adam Bogdan, Tiago Ilori, Mario Balotelli and Lazar Markovic they are also on the fringes.
“It makes no sense to stay in the squad and be in the squad when you don’t have a real opportunity to play,” said Klopp.
“When there’s no chance to play, it makes absolutely no sense. We have a few players, maybe, who want to leave us and I’m pretty sure that will happen. And one or two more players will join us from other clubs.
“It’s a long time until the 31st August and we have to work a little bit,” he added.
Turkish Football claim Galatasaray are preparing a bid for Lucas Leiva and value the Brazilian midfielder at €3 million.
According to the Fanatik newspaper, the Turkish side could make a move for Lucas if their bid to sign Lassana Diarra is unsuccessful.
Lucas has just one year remaining on his contract with Liverpool but has been a bit-part player for a few seasons now.
He was linked with a move to Besiktas last season but a long-term injury to Jordan Henderson helped his chances of performing and he was granted more game time by Brendan Rodgers.
Since Klopp’s arrival, the midfielder has played even less, but is considered one of the more senior players in the first team squad.
Lucas made 40 appearances for Liverpool last season but the majority of those came off the bench. The 29 year-old is likely to feature even less this season due to the form of Cameron Brannagan and the introduction of Marko Grujic in midfield.
His departure wouldn’t be deemed a huge loss to Liverpool, though his lack of presence in the changing room would be felt as he’s likely to depart after nine years at the club.
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