Liverpool are now expected to keep hold of Thiago Alcantara.
That’s according to David Ornstein, who has reported that the midfielder will stay at Anfield this summer, despite rumours claiming he was on his way out.
Thiago joined Liverpool for £27.3 million in 2020 and he has since been a spectacular addition to their midfield, however his injury problems have restricted his appearances at Anfield.
After managing only 14 starts in the Premier League last season, Thiago had been linked with a move away and the Daily Mail had reported that Barcelona were keen on re-signing him.
News that the midfielder could return to Spain came among the chaos regarding Fabinho and Jordan Henderson’s potential moves to Saudi Arabia, leaving fans very frustrated by their impending lack of squad depth.
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However, talk of Thiago’s departure has since gone quiet and he is now expected to stay on Merseyside for another season. The Spaniard’s contract expires next summer and he could instead leave for free in 12 months.
Speaking on Rio Ferdinand’s FIVE YouTube channel, Ornstein said: ”Neither of them were planned [Fabinho and Henderson] and that creates a bit of a dilemma for Liverpool.
“However they do have many midfield options so it was always plausible that some will depart and some thought it would be Thiago, but he is expected to stay at the club.”
Will Thiago be a regular for Liverpool next season?
If Romeo Lavia joins Liverpool over the next week or so Liverpool’s central midfield will have an average age of 23 years old – and that’s with Thiago bringing it up significantly.
The 32-year-old will be the Reds’ only remaining ‘veteran’ midfielder and his position in the club next season could be very important.
While Thiago is still likely to be riddled with injuries, he might actually get more regular game time when fit just to add that bit of experience and leadership that the likes of Henderson, Fabinho and James Milner brought to the team.
Thiago’s presence in the dressing room will also be vital and his potential exit this summer could have been one too many for Liverpool.