23 January 2024 , 18:55
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John Barnes has admitted Joshua Kimmich would be a "fantastic signing" for Liverpool amid rumours Jurgen Klopp is keen on the Bayern Munich star.
However, the Reds aren't alone in their interest and Premier League title rivals Manchester City are also believed to be keeping tabs on Kimmich's situation. The versatile Germany international has been at the Allianz Arena for just shy of a decade, but his exit appears to be on the cards with his contract expiring at the end of next season.
Currently, Thomas Tuchel's are demanding a minimum of £50million before parting ways with Kimmich, however, that figure is expected to drop by 50 per cent by the time the summer rolls around. Within Bayern's hierarchy, all hope is lost when it comes to persuading Kimmich to sign a new deal and stay with the club.
Barnes has made clear he feels Kimmich would be a stellar addition to the current crop of midfielders on the red half of Merseyside. However, the ex-Red did also make clear that Klopp already has one talented player in the same role who will be a regular in a few years.
Speaking to bettors.co.ke, the Liverpool legend explained: "Kimmich could be a good signing but I think long term Stefan Bajcetic is being earmarked for that role and would be playing in the defensive midfielder role had he been fit at the start of the season.”
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“Kimmich is a fantastic player. A great number six that can play and has great experience at the highest level of the game.
"Bajcetic will be great for Liverpool in the future but you can’t just rely on him at his young age so Kimmich would be a fantastic signing for Liverpool."
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Joshua Kimmich is wanted by some of the Premier League's biggest sidesDespite Barnes' hope, City are rumoured to be in the driving seat for Kimmich's signature. Last season's Champions League winners do boast an advantage given Kimmich has already worked with Guardiola back when the City boss was in the Bayern hot seat.
Some of Kimmich's best performances in a Bayern Munich shirt came under the watchful eye of Guardiola, which would suggest that the 28-year-old would be more than happy to reunite with his old boss at the Etihad. However, Klopp will undoubtedly make a compelling pitch to try and steer him in the direction of Anfield.