Southampton left-back Ryan Bertrand is the latest player to be linked with a summer move to Liverpool, as end-of-season unrest continues at St Mary’s.
Bertrand has been one of the Saints’ most consistent performers since his move to the south coast from Chelsea in 2014, and has established himself for England.
After seven spells on loan with the likes of Oldham Athletic, Norwich City, Reading and Aston Villa, Bertrand finally looks to have settled.
But this could all change this summer, according to the Telegraph, with concerns over the future of manager Claude Puel.
Southampton reportedly “fear they are heading in the wrong direction” with Puel in charge, and this stagnation has led to speculation over summer departures for their key players.
Centre-back Virgil van Dijk is the headline figure there, with Liverpool among the clubs pursuing a £50 million deal for the Dutchman.
But it is claimed that Bertrand could also be on the move, and the Reds are credited with an interest in signing the 27-year-old—three years after turning him down.
Bertrand was a target for Brendan Rodgers back in 2014, along with Ben Davies, and Liverpool even lodged a £6 million bid for the Southwark native.
Ultimately, they signed Alberto Moreno from Sevilla for £12 million, which would present a major climbdown for Liverpool if this report is to be believed.
Jurgen Klopp is believed to be in the market for a new left-back, with Moreno expected to leave having made just two starts in the Premier League this season.
The Spaniard has found himself at odds with the Reds manager since his arrival in 2015, and James Milner has now taken up duties as first choice.
Fulham teenager Ryan Sessegnon has been revealed as Klopp’s priority target, but Bertrand would arguably be a better signing if Milner is to be replaced next term.
Bertrand is a strong all-rounder, possessing the defensive stability and attacking sensibility that Liverpool require, while he is four years Milner’s junior, with plenty left in the tank.
Linking the Reds with want-away Southampton players is clearly an easy move for reporters, given the club’s recent transfer history.
Therefore, it would be wise to take these claims with a pinch of salt, as would it with suggestions of a bidding war with Man City and Chelsea, who both also require reinforcement at full-back.
But if Liverpool can acknowledge their mistake and replace the outgoing Moreno with Bertrand, it would be a great move.
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