da casino: Jurgen Klopp's squad is set for a significant overhaul this summer, with several arrivals expected and plenty of departures likely
da betsson: The great Liverpool summer rebuild is already well underway. Anfield has already said goodbye to a few modern-day heroes, with James Milner and Roberto Firmino joined by Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in heading for the exit door, and a host of new and exciting names linked with a move to Merseyside.
It is not exaggerating to say that this is perhaps the biggest and most important transfer window of Jurgen Klopp’s reign, with key arrivals expected and several departures anticipated.
Who should be on their way out? GOAL takes a look…
GettyKEEP: Fabinho
Fabinho’s struggles this season have, in many ways, exemplified Liverpool’s, in that they have been as inexplicable as they have been dramatic. At his best, the Brazilian is one of the finest, most consistent defensive midfielders in Europe, but the question now is whether the 29-year-old will get back to his best.
For now, Liverpool should back him to. But they need to make the right signings this summer, and build a team whose structure will protect him better. It’d cost a lot to replace him, and if they were to sell him this summer, it would surely not be for a huge fee.
AdvertisementGettyKEEP: Thiago Alcantara
Thiago was in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season 12 months ago, but this campaign has not gone to plan for the Spain international. He started it with an injury and finished it with an injury, and in between there were few of the classy, dominant performances we have come to expect.
With just a year left on his contract, the 32-year-old is unlikely to be offered a new one, but with Liverpool already needing such a huge rebuild of their midfield, it would be unwise to give themselves another player to replace. Rather, they need to make sure they are not quite as reliant on Thiago, and his fitness, as they seem to be right now.
Getty Images.SELL: Joel Matip
Another player with a year left on his deal, and one who has been a wonderful servant for the Reds over the past seven years. But Matip is no longer first-choice at Anfield, and his fitness issues over the last 12 months suggest the time has come to say goodbye.
He’ll need replacing, mind, and that won’t be easy. At his best, he’s one of the most underrated centre-backs around. His future this summer will depend on what kind of offers arrive, and what kind of player Liverpool could get to take his place.
Getty ImagesKEEP: Joe Gomez
Many would disagree on this one, but Gomez’s age and ability to play as a right-back as well as centre-back make him a valuable squad player. Sure, the England international has had a poor season, and his contract status means he may be a pretty saleable asset, but what would Liverpool have to pay to find better?
Unlike Matip, who is well into his 30s, Gomez is a player who could still have a role to play in two or three years’ time.