Pundit Tony Cascarino has told Liverpool that they should sign West Ham United midfielder Declan Rice instead of Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham.
Writing for his column in The Times, the former Chelsea player suggested the Reds would benefit more from signing a more defensive-minded midfielder, rather than a ball-running number eight.
“Jude Bellingham has been linked,” Cascarino said.
“But I would prefer a more defensively-minded player in the mould of Declan Rice or Moises Caicedo.”
Although the majority of transfer rumours in recent times have surrounded Bellingham, the Merseyside outfit have also been linked with the Hammers captain.
According to Sky Sports chief reporter Kaveh Solhekol, the Reds join Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United in the race to secure the England international’s signature.
Cascarino says Liverpool should buy Rice over Bellingham
Bellingham is a generational talent, and Liverpool would be stupid to pass up the chance to sign him.
However, it has become more and more evident that Jurgen Klopp’s squad is crying out for another number six.
As demonstrated in recent seasons, Fabinho looks off the pace. He doesn’t seem to possess that athleticism and that physical dominance he once had in the middle of the park.
Although Stefan Bajcetic has played in that role numerous times this term, it remains unclear whether Klopp sees him as more of a six or more of an eight. Either way, he is only 18 years old, so he cannot be asked to play week-in week-out.
With this in mind, Rice – who is just 24 years old – would be an excellent addition for the Reds. With extensive Premier League experience, he would make an immediate impact in the starting XI.
However, Bellingham is a necessity. Therefore, if Liverpool are to sign the Irons midfielder, it should be on top of the 19-year-old sensation.