Dave Davis discusses why the signing of Mahmoud Dahoud is entirely possible.
Amongst the believable, tenuous and sometimes ridiculous linking of players to Liverpool, there’s been one that seems to stand out more than others. Whilst most wouldn’t even have heard of Mahmoud Dahoud six months ago, since the beginning of the summer many have been liking what they’ve been reading and a quick view of YouTube would set any reds fans pulses soaring.
Many understood why Paul Joyce, a journalist known for his reliable links to Anfield, confirmed that Klopp was ‘aggressively’ pursuing the Syrian-born midfielder.
Seen as an archetypal box-to-box midfielder, the 22 year-old Monchengladbach starlet has clocked up some decent stats in 2015/16. In 32 Bundesliga games, a return of 5 goals and 9 assists seems a solid return from central midfield.
When asked about his midfielder’s playing style, Andre Schubert stated,”he’s got a real engine and is a willing runner, but he has to be more efficient and learn to ease off at times and also recognize that he doesn’t always have to run.” Hard to see Klopp being put off by someone who needs to ‘ease off’ when it comes to running.
Since Jordan Henderson’s heel diagnosis, there’s been a suspicion that we’ve been looking for a new midfielder as a foil to Can. Persistent rumours that Liverpool would be prepared to sacrifice their captain to fund other moves haven’t gone away. A strong, athletic runner all talk of gait aside, if Henderson’s movement is to be restricted questions have to be asked about his importance in the long term. Lucas and Joe Allen may not be the only ones looking over their shoulder this summer.
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Spurs and Dortmund have also been linked with Dahoud and at the rumoured £20-25 million price tag, may not be the only suitors. Dortmund are buying young talent as shown by their purchase of Dembele and Mor, plus they’re likely to be flush from the sale of Mkhitaryan to United. Spurs have Champions League to offer although seem well stocked with their own Dembele, Dier and Wanyama – amongst others.
Emre has already blazed a trail for his countryman, with many predicting he may receive the armband if Hendo does move on. With Arsenal purchasing Xhaka and Nordtveit on a free to West Han, there will be strong resolve from the Borussia-Park residents to hang on to their burgeoning talent. It’ll be interesting to see just how aggressively Klopp pursues this one.