The midfield unit that was key to Liverpool’s success last season is struggling, and could do with an exciting Premier League youngster added to the mix.
Looking at the Liverpool squad at the start of the season, you wouldn’t have predicted such issues in the middle of the park.
Alexis Mac Allister has fallen out of favour, but the players ahead of him aren’t setting the world alight either.
Ryan Gravenberch looks low on confidence, while Curtis Jones continues to split opinion as a starter for the Reds.
200 appearances in red for Curtis Jones 😍 What do you think the future holds for the Scouser?
A midfield addition could help raise the level of quality and put pressure on the current options to up their standards, and a prime prospect exists in the Premier League’s best promoted side in recent history.
Liverpool should go after Sunderland’s Noah Sadiki
Sunderland have been nothing short of exceptional this season.
They look like becoming the first promoted side in some time to make the jump to the top flight stick, currently just three points behind Liverpool.
That has been thanks in large part to captain Granit Xhaka’s imperious presence in midfield, but his partner in crime has been equally impressive.
Noah Sadiki arrived at the Stadium of Light in the summer, and his emergence as an exciting midfield prospect hasn’t gone unnoticed. Chelsea, Manchester United and Juventus have all been credited with interest in the 21-year-old.
After finishing off his time at Union SG with a title-winning campaign, he has already elevated his game since arriving in England.
A physical, pacey midfielder with all the intangibles to develop into a scary proposition, Sadiki is a name that will continue to be floated as a top target. Liverpool should be right in the mix.
He can beat his man off the dribble, has a long pass in his locker, and possesses the physical traits to cover every blade of grass on the pitch.
To add to the pros column, Sadiki is as versatile as they come, having played at full-back, centre-back, out wide, and in every level of midfield. He could also ease Liverpool’s defensive depth issues.
His performance at Anfield last month was a glimpse into what he could offer Arne Slot’s side. Gravenberch is relied upon heavily, so his dip in form has been felt more than that of Jones or Mac Allister.
- READ MORE: Ryan Babel claims Ryan Gravenberch has an ability that Liverpool aren’t utilising right now
Having another defensive-minded midfielder to compete with — or play alongside in more physical matchups — could be exactly what Liverpool need to regain control in central areas.
You’ve got £80m to fix Liverpool’s midfield this summer, who are you buying?
Sunderland paid £15 million for him just six months ago, but his value will have shot up after an eye-catching half-season with the Black Cats.
Still, he’s a young talent who is clearly suited to the Premier League. Liverpool have much to do next summer in defence and possibly the wide areas, so a more budget-friendly option than an Adam Wharton or a Carlos Baleba could be the right move.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
