The jubilation in Madrid late last season has not only given Liverpool a Champions League trophy to boast of. It has now laid a platform for the Merseyside outfit which can help them dominate European football for years to come. But the hectic nature of the English schedule will mean that Jurgen Klopp cannot rest on his laurels and will have to add some depth, and quality to his side to try and take the next step.
There are a few issues in his squad that Klopp will want to solve, and the left-back position should be a priority this summer. Having bid farewell to Alberto Moreno, Andrew Robertson, Liverpool’s first choice left-back, has James Milner and Joe Gomez as his only, make-shift backups
So, it is imperative for Klopp to sign a left-back that can push the Scot for a place in the first team. Here are three such understudies that The Reds should look to sign before the start of the next season:
Junior Firpo (Real Betis):
Arguably one of the most exciting prospects in this role in Europe at the moment, Spanish U21 international Jr Firpo is a transfer target for the biggest clubs in England. With a release clause of €60m, he is a touch expensive for a backup role but having won the EURO U21’s last month, his expertise will not only give Klopp options but will also add competition for roles in the first team. This will get the best out of both these players, making him an astute signing for the European champions who need further depth to clinch the Premier League title.
Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham):
A transfer target for Liverpool last summer as well, Sessegnon still remains one of the most exciting teenagers on display in England. With The Whites back in the Championship next season, the 19-year old could be available for as low as £25m this summer, which will be an absolute bargain for any club that signs him up. He is versatile and will only improve as a player under Klopp. His attributes fit well into Liverpool’s playing style while his ability to play a bit further forward could give the manager another option in attack, making him an intriguing signing.
Alejandro Grimaldo (SL Benfica):
Rounding off this list is yet another Spanish youngster Grimaldo. Having moved to Portugal from La Masia back in 2015, Grimaldo has been the first choice for the Portuguese giants for the last couple of seasons. At just 23, he already has 78 Liga NOS appearances to his name and is certainly capable of making an impact in the Premier League. He is widely regarded as a world-class talent and playing under Jurgen Klopp might just be what he needs to realize his potential. He will be happy to wait for his turn, will add depth to the left-back role and could solve this issue for Liverpool, for almost a decade.
