Liverpool wanted to sign Patrick Bamford this summer, according to reports. It makes Jurgen Klopp’s transfers plan an obvious one.
Goal claims that Liverpool considered signing Patrick Bamford this summer. They ran into a problem, however.
Bamford didn’t particularly want to leave Leeds, nor did he fancy being fifth-choice at Liverpool. He’s played a similar role at a big club before as he struggled badly to find games with Chelsea.
So that’s understandable. It’s also understandable why Liverpool would want him. Bamford is a hard-working striker who managed 17 Premier League goals last season.
But despite the interest being obvious, it does tell us a lot about Jurgen Klopp’s plans.
Liverpool chased Patrick Bamford
Klopp was apparently a driving force behind the Bamford interest. He sees him as a player with a wonderful work rate and his goal record last season speak for itself.
But there are a couple of reasons this would be an unusual transfer. For starters, Bamford is 28. You’re not getting long-term use out of him – really just three or four years before he’s done as a top player.
That doesn’t really make all that much sense for Liverpool – but it would for Klopp. His contract ends in 2024, so for him, the long-term impact isn’t that important. Bamford could have come in and delivered until the boss left.
The fact the club were ready to do that suggests that’s the plan here. Build a team that can deliver under Klopp first and foremost, to take advantage of having one of the world’s best coaches.
It’s also a sign that Klopp doesn’t quite like his attacking options. Bamford wouldn’t have been cheap, being an English player at a Premier League club. He would have been a major signing, even as fifth-choice.
But Liverpool do lack an out-and-out centre-forward that they can rely on. Diogo Jota is hit-and-miss there, while Divock Origi struggles for games. It appears Klopp would like to fine a reliable option to lead the line on occasion.
And perhaps we’ll see a move in that direction this January. It’s certainly an area most would agree Liverpool could improve on. While Bamford may be a step too far, it would be nice to see the Reds fine the upgrade Klopp seems to want.