Liverpool should prioritise bolstering their midfield department in the summer.
Adrien Rabiot celebrates with Lucas Moura after scoring the first goal for PSG
Irrespective of league position, Liverpool should be looking to sign at least two quality central midfielders (defensive and attacking) this summer. The Reds reportedly will have money to spend (The Times), and they must bring in top class talents in order to challenge the big boys in the coming season.
Signing a defensive midfielder is a top priority. Liverpool have not had a world class defensive midfielder since Javier Mascherano left the club in 2010. Lucas Leiva for a while did a good job, but recurrent injuries has robbed his strength and stamina – vital attributes required of a defensive midfielder.
Also, a proper central midfielder is required, someone in the mould of Xabi Alonso or Steven Gerrard. With Jordan Henderson struggling with injuries, and Emre Can not quite fulfilling his potential, Liverpool will require a solid young central midfielder who will add significant quality to the side.
The French league has become a good catchment area for top class young players in recent years, and Liverpool should look to scout that market extensively.
Here are three midfielders Liverpool should target from Ligue 1 this summer:
Adrien Rabiot (PSG)
The 22-year-old has been a long term target of Premier League rivals Tottenham. Back in 2015, Spurs tried to sign the Frenchman, but saw their loan bid rejected by PSG.
The Daily Mirror reported back in February that Tottenham could reignite their interest in Rabiot. Liverpool should make a move for him ahead of other potential suitors.
A highly gifted player, strong in tackling, blocking and passing, Rabiot is a class act. He is very good at dribbling, and has scored two league goals this season in 23 appearances.
Corentin Tolisso (Lyon)
The young central midfielder has been with Lyon since 2007, and has climbed up the rank to become a key player for the club, making over 150 appearances.
Lyon’s Corentin Tolisso celebrates
A versatile midfielder, who functions mainly as a defensive midfielder, the Frenchman has shown remarkable attacking return this season, scoring 14 goals in all competitions for the French outfit.
Tolisso would be a great addition to the Liverpool squad, but the Reds may face a strong competition from Manchester City, who are keen to sign him, according to ESPN.
Tiemoue Bakayoko (Monaco)
Another young defensive midfielder who has shown tremendous growth over the last 18 months. Sitting at the heart of Monaco’s midfield, he does the dirty work and helps the team maintain a solid defensive shape.
Excellent in tackling and ball retention, what makes him a top player is his intelligence. His positional awareness, and excellent reading of the game shows his maturity beyond years.
Monaco’s Tiemoue Bakayoko celebrates scoring their third goal
Do you agree with this list? Let me know in the comment box if you have other suggestions.
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