Didi Hamann has suggested that Liverpool should make a move for Newcastle United star Joelinton having suffered a blow this week in their efforts to sign Mason Mount.
Speaking to iNews, the former Anfield hero tipped the Brazilian midfielder as an alternative to the Chelsea playmaker, with Joelinton enjoying another fantastic season under Eddie Howe as Newcastle this week qualified for the UEFA Champions League.
Signed from Hoffenheim in 2019 for £40m, Joelinton was converted from an attacker into a midfielder by Howe and has since become one of Newcastle’s most important players. And for Hamann, the former Bundesliga star could be an ideal alternative for Mount.
Hamman said: “I’d like a player like Joelinton from Newcastle, who’s got a physical presence. The players Liverpool have got are all very similar. And if you look at the size of the Newcastle team… Size isn’t everything. But when you stand in the tunnel and see these guys you think; ‘wow’. They’re not just big, they can play as well.
“I would like a player of Joelinton’s stature. (A player) who can make a goal, has got a physical presence, is good on the ball, is just an all-round player, and hasn’t got too many defensive responsibilities with one player behind him. A player with a physical presence would suit Liverpool very well.”
Joelinton could be perfect for Liverpool, but transfer would be impossible
Joelinton’s complete 180 from failed Newcastle striker to a revelation in Howe’s midfield has been one of the stories of the past 18 months, and whilst the 26-year-old could be a seamless fit for Liverpool, a transfer feels near-impossible given his importance for the Toon.
With Champions League football returning to St. James Park next season, Joelinton will want to prove his mettle against the best Europe has to offer, and although Liverpool would be viewed as a step up, the South American really has no reason to depart Newcastle for Anfield just yet.