Liverpool have now joined Manchester United and Tottenham in the race to sign Kim Min-jae from Napoli.
What’s the story?
Well, Jürgen Klopp is now keen to rival Erik ten Hag and Antonio Conte to sign the South Korea international – according to Il Mattino in Italy.
It comes after Italian news outlet Si Gonfia la Rete claimed that Tottenham are willing to spend £43m to trigger Min-jae’s release clause.
The Mirror added that Manchester United – and also Real Madrid – want to sign the Napoli colossus.
Min-jae has shone in Naples this season following a £16m move from Fenerbahce, making 15 appearances in Serie A as Napoli sit top of the table – he has scored two goals in those outings.
The Napoli No.3 has also made six appearances in the Champions League, as Napoli hammered Liverpool 4-1 on their way to progressing out of Group A into the Round of 16.
Il Mattino believe Liverpool have made contact with Napoli over a deal for Min-jae after Virgil van Dijk suffered damage to his hamstring in the 3-1 defeat to Brentford.
Liverpool must leave Min-jae to Manchester United or Tottenham
In our view, it would be a foolish decision to sign another centre-back when the midfield department desperately needs reinforcements.
As talented as he is, some supporters were even annoyed at the arrival of Cody Gakpo, with many questioning where Liverpool’s priorities lie as Klopp’s midfield remains worryingly short of options.
Even if Van Dijk’s injury is worse than first feared, Liverpool still have the likes of Ibrahima Konate, Joel Matip, Joe Gomez and Nat Phillips to cover for the Dutchman, so there is no urgent need for a new centre-back.
There is, however, urgency for a new midfielder, with fans already getting agitated as rivals strengthen.
Keep an eye on this situation, as Liverpool risk angering their fanbase if they move for Min-jae before the midfield is strengthened.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
