10 March 2023 , 22:30
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Jurgen Klopp says there will be a significant overhaul of his midfield this summer, insisting he “needs players” to cover for end-of-season exits.
But the Liverpool boss has strongly agreed with Anfield owner John W. Henry that the club’s transfer policy will continue to look to invest sensibly to rebuild in a responsible manner. With the likes of Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain free agents in the summer and certain to leave, and James Milner also out of contract, Klopp revealed the planning over replacements has been ongoing for some time.
Asked if the emergence of teenagers Harvey Elliott and Stefan Bajcetic has altered his transfer plans, he replied firmly: “No, we need players, we cannot go with only three midfielders into a season.
"We count on them but that does not mean we will not have a look in the summer. The challenge for us with the changes we have made now or over the next few years we have always replaced a sensational player or formation, because the boys are just that good. That is how it is but that doesn't mean we don't have to make changes.”
Klopp refused to be drawn in when the name Jude Bellingham was mentioned, replying tersely: “It's nothing to do with any kind of names or players.”
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But he was clear that the succession planning must be as wise and long-term as ever, citing the serious money spent on three forwards in Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo, who were 23 or 24 when signed.
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Jurgen Klopp knows he needs to improve his midfield (Liverpool FC)“Sometimes, it sounds from the outside that we didn't do any transfers, but I really think that the boys we brought in have the potential to be really outstanding,” he said.
“If you have a look, the players we have brought in the last couple of transfer windows, Luis, Darwin, Cody, all players for the first line. (We had) one of the best front three in world football, But only Mo (Salah) is left now, pretty much.
“Yet we replaced them and Diogo (Jota) came in that time as well. That's investment, and it's wise investment and responsible investment. That's what you want and what you need, and we will do that for other parts of the team.”
Bellingham has long been linked with Liverpool, while Klopp will also want a midfield anchor after failing to sign his strong target Aurelien Tchouameni last summer.