Liverpool have proved on numerous occasions that there is value to be had at the bottom end of the Premier League pyramid.
The likes of Andy Robertson, Georginio Wijnlaldum and Xherdan Shaqiri have never looked back since their respected relegations from the English top-flight.
Jurgen Klopp has made it clear on numerous occasions that despite Liverpool’s status as champions of England, Europe and the world, the club simply cannot afford to flex their muscles financially.
Instead, the Reds have meticulously searched for hidden gems at a cut-price deal. So, could lightning be about to strike for a fourth time?
Here is a look at five quality relegated players who Liverpool could look at making moves for this summer…
Ismaila Sarr
The Daily Mirror are just one of a number of outlets linking Liverpool with a move for Ismaïla Sarr. The Senegalese winger joined Watford from Rennes for a reported fee of £30m last summer.
Sarr, 22, is unquestionably a talented proposition. Liverpool fell victims to the youngster’s threat back in February after Sarr registered two goals and an assist against the champions to end their 13-month unbeaten run.
His blistering pace and tricky dribbling skills are just a few skills that have wreaked havoc against defences this term. At 22, he is nowhere near his prime and at such a young age could be moulded into a world-class talent.
Another major influence on Sarr’s potential transfer would be his international teammate Sadio Mane.
Sarr recently named Liverpool’s and fellow countryman as his footballing idol so the idea of two international teammates thriving off each other next season could be an exciting prospect.
“Sadio Mané is not only a Senegal teammate of mine but he is my inspiration and my idol,” he told Watford’s official website.
“I watch lots of videos of him to see how he does things like accelerating and dribbling, and for me he is the best player in the world. For sure, the best African player in Europe.
“When I first came to Watford he sent me some messages welcoming me to the Premier League and any piece of advice he gives me I listen to carefully. He has won the Champions League and I’m so pleased he will soon be winning the Premier League because he deserves this.”
Nathan Ake
Ake would be a major coup considering his ability as a left-footed centre-back and he is unlikely to play Championship football next season.
The 25-year-old could also be utilised at full-back which would provide adequate cover in two positions which could be of major financial benefit if Liverpool were looking to move.
The Daily Mail claimed recently that Manchester City were considering a move for Ake. Bournemouth, who did hold a £40m asking price for the player, will most likely drop their demands after relegation.
Jamal Lewis
Most Liverpool supporters would agree that another option at left-back is needed, with too much weight currently placed on Andy Robertson’s shoulders in that defensive regard.
The real dilemma comes relative to money which may or may not be available following the global epidemic.
Lewis could be a special talent. He is an attack-minded left-back who has flourished in the Premier League this season.
Having clocked up 27 appearances in England’s top-flight, at 22, Lewis would be an assured an able deputy to Robertson.
While he is does not boast the same attacking statistics as Robertson, largely due to Daniel Farke’s more defensive approach, Lewis has proven he can deliver in front of goal if his ability is honed properly.
His undeniable quality was there for all to see after Lewis struck a sumptuous left-footed winner against Leicester City in March.
Todd Cantwell
The Norwich talisman has been persistently touted with a move to the home of the European champions following two inspiring performances against Jurgen Klopp’s team this season. He has a contract at Carrow Road until the summer of 2022, but Norwich’s recent confirmation to the Championship changes the dynamic entirely.
Playing for a struggling Norwich side, Cantwell stood out with a record among the best in the Premier League.
He was a mainstay in Farke’s team having clocked up 37 PL appearances scoring six goals and registering two assists.
If he were to be mixed in with Liverpool’s devastating attacking options, 22-year-old Cantwell could be a force to be reckoned with.
David Brooks
Brook’s long-term injury ultimately played a major part in Bournemouth’s relegation to the Championship.
A goal late in the season against Pep Guardiola was a timely reminder of his quality. At just 23, Brooks has a lot to give and could become a useful option at cover for Liverpool attacking trident.
In the past, he has been valued by Bournemouth at £50 million, and this is an opportunity for Liverpool to buy him on the cheap.
His statistics throughout the 2018/19 season saw Brooks boast seven goals as well as five assists and were fundamental to the youngster’s nomination for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.
He has proven in the past he could be worth taking a punt on.
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