Brendan Rodgers wanted to sign Ryan Bertrand at Liverpool – and the Reds could finally move for him this summer.
Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand looks dejected after the game
Reports from The Mirror claim that Liverpool are interested in signing Southampton left back Ryan Bertrand, in a move that would rectify a mistake made some years ago.
The Reds’ need for a new left back is hardly a secret; 2014 signing Alberto Moreno has failed to impress since joining from Sevilla, and his poor displays led Jurgen Klopp to use James Milner – a right-footed midfielder – at left back instead.
Klopp must pursue a natural left back this summer, and whilst a host of names have been linked, few fit the bill more perfectly than Bertrand.
It’s been a running for years that Liverpool sign any players who impress for Southampton, having landed Dejan Lovren, Nathaniel Clyne, Adam Lallana, Sadio Mane and Rickie Lambert in the last three years, but signing Bertrand would be justified.
Liverpool’s Alberto Moreno in action
The 27-year-old has proven himself as one of the Premier League’s top left backs, possessing pace and crossing ability going forward, whilst he’s streets ahead of Moreno defensively, even filling in at centre back at times.
Solid, dependable and coming into his prime, Bertrand would give Liverpool another England international in their squad, and a move should be pushed through to rectify a mistake made by the club under Brendan Rodgers.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers
As reported by BBC Sport, Rodgers wanted to bring Bertrand to Anfield during his time as Liverpool boss, viewing him as the ideal left back for the club having worked with him in the youth ranks at Chelsea – but Liverpool’s transfer committee blocked his request, signing Moreno instead.
Now, three years on, Liverpool may have to pay a higher price to land their man, but Bertrand is the proven Premier League left back that the Reds need – and now-Celtic boss Rodgers was right all along in just how impressive he can be, and he may end up being Moreno’s replacement this summer in a fascinating twist of fate.
Would you like to see Liverpool sign Bertrand?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
