Worst case scenario for Liverpool?
Barcelona could be set to deal a major double blow to Liverpool in the coming months as they eye transfers for two top attacking midfield players.
As has been well documented, the Catalan giants remain keen on raiding the Reds for Brazilian playmaker Philippe Coutinho, but could also foil the Premier League club’s bid to replace him.
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Fresh twist in Philippe Coutinho transfer saga
According to Mundo Deportivo, Jurgen Klopp had been among the clubs leading the charge for Schalke contract rebel Leon Goretzka, but he’s also in Barca’s sights.
Worst of all for Liverpool, the Germany international is supposedly putting Barcelona as his top priority as he weighs up his options for next season, when he looks set to become a free agent.
Mundo Deportivo claim Barcelona are keen on both players, particularly as Goretzka looks a less challenging pursuit at the moment after BBC Sport reported they failed with three bids to prise Coutinho away from Liverpool during the summer.
This looks potentially disastrous for Klopp as he looks to rebuild his Liverpool side, who are already struggling this season after a series of poor defensive displays in key fixtures.
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While much energy was put into keeping Coutinho this summer, Klopp failed to sufficiently strengthen his squad in other areas, with no defenders brought in and what looks like a large amount of money wasted on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is yet to nail down a regular place in the side.
Goretzka could have been an ideal addition for the Merseyside giants, particularly as well amid doubts over Emre Can’s future at Anfield.
The Daily Mirror claim that talks over a new contract for Can have stalled, and he is another big name who could be available on a free at the end of this season.