Stephen Warnock has told BBC Sport that Liverpool should have struck a deal to sign Yves Bissouma this summer – but instead, the midfielder swapped Brighton for Tottenham in a £30million move. The Reds are lacking in midfield depth.
On Monday night, Liverpool fielded a makeshift midfield of veteran James Milner, and rookie Harvey Elliott alongside Jordan Henderson. It saw United secure all three points at Old Trafford, leaving Liverpool with two from a possible nine.
Thiago, Naby Keita, Curtis Jones and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are all on the treatment table as things stand. The Reds have a week left in the window if they want sign someone. Keita and Oxlade-Chamberlain see their deals end in 2023.
Ex-Liverpool defender Warnock believes Liverpool should have addressed the issue earlier in the summer, by beating Tottenham to the signature of Bissouma. The Mali international has sparkled at Brighton over the last four seasons.
“One of the guys who stands out for me was obviously Yves Bissouma, who went to Tottenham for the fee that they paid for him. I think he would have been perfect for Liverpool,” Warnock told BBC Sport this week.
Warnock: Liverpool should have struck deal for Tottenham star Bissouma
Bissouma has gone to Tottenham but has only made substitute appearances in all three of Tottenham’s opening three Premier League matches. Right now, at Liverpool, he would surely be starting under Jurgen Klopp.
However, a move to Spurs does open up a bigger chance to break into the side. He is first reserve. With Spurs fighting on all four fronts, he will certainly play at least 30 times in all competitions. Albeit starting or from the bench.
You would have to argue that when Jones, Keita, Thiago and Oxlade-Chamberlain come back, as well as keeping Milner and the rise of Elliott, Liverpool are well-stocked in midfield when all are available. Bissouma might have agreed.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
