Double deal for defensive duo would see Liverpool significantly strengthen their back line.
Liverpool have proven to be the architects of their own downfall this season – as regular inconsistencies have permeated a campaign that threatens to fade into obscurity.
Despite possessing the marvellous talents of Philippe Coutinho, Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Adam Lallana all within a talent-laden squad, Jurgen Klopp’s side have regularly shown an ability to implode on the defensive front.
From the goalkeeping fluctuations between Simon Mignolet and Loris Karius, to the erratic selections of central defensive pairings, Liverpool are yet to establish any foundations for which to build a serious Premier League title challenge.
Indeed, amid the transient nature of defensive personnel Dejan Lovren, Ragnar Klavan, Lucas Leiva and Joel Matip, the only constants have been right back Nathaniel Clyne and stand-in left back James Milner.
If Klopp is to lead Liverpool to their first Premier League triumph any time soon, the elephants in the room need to be addressed. Despite the admirable efforts of Milner, left back is clearly an area that needs improving. A profile consisting of youth, pace, energy and versatility would fit – and, although Liverpool have been linked with a range of candidates, perhaps the most appropriate solution can be found in the form of Bayer Leverkusen’s 20-year-old Benjamin Henrichs.
Henrichs is comfortable in either full back role, and can also play in the midfield areas – traits that could appeal to Klopp’s high intensity, all action, fluid style of play. The German international has certainly shown his worth as an all-action performer, tough in the tackle and ability to counter-attack with purpose and intent.
Henrichs has been exposed to Champions League football this season with Leverkusen – and has not looked out of place on that stage whatsoever. However, with Bayer currently struggling in the Bundesliga, the likelihood is that the talented 20-year-old could be on the move in the summer.
Another who may look to depart the BayArena is Henrich’s team mate, Jonathan Tah. The giant 21-year-old would act as a potentially ideal signing for Liverpool – due in part to the centre-back’s ability to read the game, strength, deceptive pace and his impressive distribution with the ball at his feet.
The appropriateness of Tah signing for Liverpool has been muted before. Last year, the Mirror reported that the defender was on Liverpool’s radar as a result of Tah’s ability and calm demeanour – whilst Leverkusen’s sporting director, Rudi Voller, has gone on record and stated that “Jonathan [Tah] belongs to a new generation of centre-backs who are very good footballers.”
The pair would be a big addition to the Liverpool squad – and it may even help the famous Merseyside club finally land some silverware.
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