Jurgen Klopp’s one wish for Liverpool next year is to sign Jude Bellingham from Borussia Dortmund.
That’s according to The Times, who claim that the Liverpool boss is placing signing Bellingham above anything else in 2023.
However, if that is to materialise, it’s claimed that it will only be during the summer transfer window. The Times report that Liverpool’s business in the January market is now likely to be finished following the arrival of Cody Gakpo.
Many Reds fans would like to see a midfield signing prioritised in the New Year. But aside from an ‘unexpected opportunity’ opening up, Liverpool are said to be unlikely to enter the market.
Furthermore, it’s reported that bids have not been made for potential targets Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez.
Despite more proof of Liverpool’s porous midfield being on display last night against Leicester City, it looks like Klopp is going to have to wait for his man.
Give Jurgen his wish!
Liverpool’s midfield is balanced on a knife edge right now. If it’s true that they won’t further add to their ranks in January, they are really playing with fire.
Not only are they potentially chucking away a resurgence this season, but they’re putting a lot of eggs in the Bellingham basket.
Sure, the 19-year-old would be most people’s first choice. In the words of Daniel Sturridge on Instagram, he was ‘sensational’ at the recent World Cup.
But the competition for him is huge. It certainly isn’t a given that Liverpool will win the race to sign him. If it’s Bellingham or bust, then the Reds could be about to set themselves up for an almighty disappointment.
Given their specific situation, Liverpool also need more than one new midfielder. Leicester demonstrated beautifully last night exactly why immediate reinforcements are necessary.
Time and again they sliced through Harvey Elliott and Jordan Henderson. The sight of Naby Keita coming on was a reminder that Klopp does have different options now at his disposal. But still, whether it’s Bellingham or not, they need some fresh blood next month. Give Jurgen his wish, get Jude in ASAP.
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