How Liverpool could fix their struggling squad…
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Despite spending big money and signing nine players during the summer, Liverpool’s level has dropped severely from the exceptional side that ran riot in 2013/14.
As a result of the new signings largely failing to settle in, Brendan Rodgers might have to make more changes come January to cement Liverpool’s challenge for a top four spot.
In a perfect world for Reds fans, here’s the business the team would conclude in January – although in reality, only one or maybe two deals will be done.
IN:
Alexandre Lacazette – Lyon
Liverpools goals have dried up, and they badly need a pacy forward to start when Daniel Sturridge isn’t fit (which is quite often.) Already this year in France, Lacazette’s bagged eight and assisted three.
Sami Khedira – Real Madrid
Khedira’s contract is up in the summer, and although Chelsea and Arsenal are interested in his services, he’d be the absolute perfect long-term Steven Gerrard replacement. And affordable, too.
Kiko Casilla – Espanyol
Simon Mignolet is a liability, and mooted replacements Iker Casillas and Victor Valdes are past their best. The Reds should sign Casilla, the ever-improving Spaniard.
Divock Origi – Lille (Loan return)
Lille will almost definitely not allow it, but Liverpool would love to have their summer signing available right now. Origi has scored four goals so far this season, works incredibly hard, and has the skill to create something out of nothing.
Tiago Ilori – Bordeaux (Loan return)
Another player the Reds could do with having back at Anfield. The current crop of centre-backs are playing horrendously, but Ilori is proving his undeniable talent in France – bagging one goal so far and putting in a series of impressive performances. Liverpool do have the option to recall him.
Andre Wisdom – West Brom (Loan return)
The Reds are surely regretting sending out so many good young players on loan. Wisdom has played far, far better so far for West Brom than Javier Manquillo and Glen Johnson have for the Reds, but will not be available until 2014/15 unless the Baggies allow him to leave.
OUT:
Mario Balotelli
The forward is becoming an increasingly poisonous influence in the dressing room. He visibly frustrates his teammates, and the circus that surrounds him is very unhealthy for the club. Get him out on loan.
Lucas Leiva
He’s been a loyal servant to Liverpool, but Lucas is surplus to requirements at Anfield. He’ll only get proper game time this season if there’s an injury crisis.
Suso
The Spaniard is currently injured, but is clearly not in Rodgers’ plans. He should be sold in January when the Reds can still get a transfer fee for his services.
