Jamie Carragher is not fully convinced that Michael Keane would be a good signing for Liverpool.
Jamie Carragher during the press conference
Burnley defender Michael Keane will be one of the sought after players this summer, with several Premier League clubs vying for his signature.
According to reports from The Mirror, Liverpool are closing in on the 24-year-old defender, who is valued at £25 million.
Jurgen Klopp has reportedly made Keane his top defensive target this summer, although Liverpool face a strong challenge from rivals Manchester United for his services.
Burnley’s Michael Keane during the match
The Mirror reports that Liverpool have agreed personal terms with the player. However, Keane is reportedly waiting to see whether Liverpool can secure Champions League qualification before committing himself to the deal.
Former Liverpool defender and now Sky Sports pundit, Jamie Carragher seems unsure that he’s worth the reported £25 million price tag.
Carragher is sceptical that the Burnley defender can make a swift transition to a big Premier League club where expectations will be higher.
The Liverpool legend adds that Liverpool should be looking at someone who can make a difference in the team, if they are paying that figure.
However, despite Keane enjoying a brilliant season with Burnley, Carragher says the England international is yet to reach that level where he could make a difference to the team, and as such, he is not better than the current Liverpool defenders.
“I like him, I think he’s had a really good season,” Carragher told Sky Sports. “It’s a big jump to go from Burnley to Liverpool and a completely different way of playing.
“That 4-4-2 at Burnley, it’s a lot of protection, and maybe a similar thing to what we’re seeing with Mamadou Sakho at Crystal Palace.
“He looks a completely different player there but he’s playing a completely different game.
“Jurgen Klopp was talking about centre-backs at top clubs a couple of weeks ago. The questions asked of you are completely different.
“If you are going to buy Michael Keane, it’s going to be £25m. He’s a young English player.
“Is he better than Lovren and Matip? He’s maybe the same level.
“If you’re spending £25m on a centre-back he has to go straight in your team and make a massive difference. I don’t think he is quite at that level to come in and make a massive difference.”
Burnley’s Michael Keane celebrates scoring their first goal
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
