Liverpool have been linked with a swoop for Bayern Munich midfielder Thiago since the transfer window opened.
They may now have competition for the Spaniard’s signature, with Le 10 Sport reporting Manchester City are now in the hunt.
Pep Guardiola signed Thiago for Bayern back in 2013 and that relationship may prove crucial.
We’ve got three reasons why Liverpool need to go all-in for the midfield maestro.
Champions always need to freshen up
Liverpool have a settled squad of players largely around the right age to build sustained success, but it’s still important that they evolve.
Sir Alex Ferguson used to make a couple of signings per summer even when he had a hugely dominant Manchester United side.
It keeps things fresh, keeps players on their toes and adds new hunger to even the most successful of squads.
There won’t be many players of Thiago’s quality – which can add something to Liverpool – on the market this summer, so it’s important Klopp gets his man.
Wijnaldum uncertainty
As per Sky Sports, Gini Wijnaldum is still awaiting a contract offer from Liverpool despite being into the final year of his current deal.
The former Newcastle man was an important part of the title win, but if there is the prospect he might be off, Liverpool could take control of the situation by getting the deal for his replacement done pre-emptively.
The pair play slightly different roles, and Thiago is more of a creator compared to Wijnaldum’s energetic approach.
But perhaps Thiago could fill the void if contract talks remain at an impasse.
Land a blow on Guardiola
As mentioned, Guardiola and Thiago have a strong relationship, having worked together at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
If Jurgen Klopp could convince the Spaniard to shun a reunion with his former boss, it would land a major blow ahead of the new campaign and the resumption of the rivalry between the country’s two best clubs.
City also still need a deep playmaker, having missed out on Jorginho in 2018 and gone for Rodri, who is a different type of player.
Thiago could be that man, so Klopp has the chance here to make his own squad stronger while robbing a rival of a potential transfer in a role they have been keen to fill for a number of seasons now.
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