Dietmar Hamann has told gaming website GG Recon that Liverpool need a midfielder like Newcastle United star Joelinton – but questions a move would be possible between now and the end of the current transfer window.
Since the arrival of Eddie Howe, 26-year-old Joelinton has been converted into a central midfielder. The Brazilian had initially struggled as a striker since his move from Hoffenheim, which cost Newcastle £40m, a club record at the time.
He is a mainstay in Newcastle’s side at the current moment in time, most-recently partnering Joe Willock and Sean Longstaff. Normally, fellow Bruno Guimaraes sits behind the versatile star as his midfield anchor, giving him freedom.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are struggling for numbers in midfield. At Manchester United, they suffered a 2-1 defeat with Harvey Elliott, Jordan Henderson and James Milner making up the midfield three. It improved against Bournemouth.
Elliott was flanked by Fabinho and Henderson. But Curtis Jones, Thiago, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita are all injured. Ex-Liverpool and Newcastle man Hamann believes the Reds need a player like Joelinton in their midfield.
“They could do with Joelinton. He’s someone who’s technically gifted, a big lad, has a great strike on him. That’s the type of player they miss. Whether you can get him now with a few days of the window left to go, I’m not too sure.”
Hamann: Liverpool need Newcastle star Joelinton, they lack his power
Joelinton would certainly improve Newcastle’s midfield and give Jurgen Klopp another option in attack. Having lost Divock Origi and Sadio Mane in the summer, and only bringing in Darwin Nunez, another body would be ideal.
But more importantly, another midfielder. Joelinton has the physicality, the strength, the footballing intelligence to play in midfield. He would be a superb signing. Joelinton’s value might have dropped before Howe, but it has gone back up.
Costing Newcastle £40million, he has three years remaining on his deal. Any potential move would have to far exceed The Toon’s outlay, given their initial spend, the contract and the time of the window. It is incredibly unlikely.
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