Jamie Redknapp has acknowledged that although Gini Wijnaldum is a ‘fantastic player’ for Liverpool, he certainly is not irreplacable.
The Netherlands international looks to be months away from leaving the Reds on a free transfer.
Liverpool have offered the 30-year-old midfielder a new contract but it seems to be less than satisfactory for the former Newcastle United star, who cost the club £25 million five years ago.
Wijnaldum has proven himself a massive player for Jurgen Klopp in recent years, playing starring roles in their Champions League and Premier League success.
And although Redknapp is a big fan of the Dutchman, the Sky Sports pundit believes that replacing him won’t be a huge issue for Klopp and Michael Edwards.
He told PA Sport: “Wijnaldum has been a brilliant signing for Liverpool: his energy levels are fantastic but they have a feeling that, long-term, giving a player that much money until he is 33 or 34… they don’t want to do it.
“I am sure Jurgen Klopp won’t want to lose him as you can’t deny he is a fantastic player but he is not irreplaceable, you can find players like him, and Liverpool will be in the market trying to find the next Wijnaldum.”
It might be a little more difficult than Redknapp anticipates, if we’re honest.
If Liverpool fail to qualify for the Champions League next season, which is very possible, then it’ll have a knock-on effect for their finances and therefore easily replacing a staple in their first XI like Wijnaldum isn’t actually going to be a walk in the park.
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