Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp could sign Roberto Carlos as Liverpool target Andy Robertson’s recovery
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With Liverpool still on the lookout for a new left-back for 2024, Jurgen Klopp will take a closer look at potential targets at Anfield this weekend.
Jurgen Klopp was ready for the summer transfers and he returned last week. As Liverpool navigate their summer transfer window, the German manager wants to prioritize his midfield – and so, of course, the players who could leave.
Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita left and were replaced by Alexis McAllister, Dominic Szoboslay, Wataru Endo and Ryan Gravenburch.
It was all about Klopp’s engine room, but his focus on the center of the park meant he overlooked the need for a new left-back.
Manchester United showed interest in the likes of Levi Colville, Gonzalo Inacio and Piero Hincapier but failed to make moves and instead decided to fill the gap by sending on Andy Robertson. The Scotland defender has been very reliable but unfortunately suffered a dislocated shoulder during the last international break.
The Scotland captain could now be ruled out until 2024, when he will be replaced by Kostas Tsimikas. Joe Gomez is another possible option, but the Englishman is right-handed, as are Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joel Matip.
The latter’s contract expires at the end of the season.
Liverpool have a growing need for a new centre-back and left-back. Klopp is almost at a disadvantage compared to his fellow Premier League leaders, with almost every team having at least one left-footed centre-back.
Joshko Guardiola, Nathan Ake, Gabriel Magallanes, Jakub Chivior, Lisandro Martinez, Sven Botman, Dan Byrne and Pau Torres are the top 10 left-footed defensive options in the Premier League. It is clear that many elite managers are focused on this profile.
Klopp could look for the vacant post again in 2024. It remains to be seen who he will target, but this weekend he will take a closer look at players who could be considered potential candidates for the role.
Murillo made his Premier League debut for Nottingham Forest earlier this month and within a week had caught the eye of many English football pundits, including former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp.
A Sky Sports pundit has praised the centre-back after watching the forward’s performance against Crystal Palace.
“He’s really going to be a fan favorite.
Any club will be keeping an eye on this guy.
There are many weapons in his arsenal.
He has a good left foot, which gives you a huge advantage. Can it be defended? Yes.
He then transforms into the ultimate Roberto Carlos through an incredible skill.
“That’s what you want from a modern centre-back.”
The 21-year-old star didn’t score for Tricky Tries on the day but shone in some solid moments.
The South American found the back of the net early on after brilliantly exploring the box from deep inside the box. Against the Eagles, he showed a level of defensive authority that earned Redknapp plaudits.
After the fight, Steve Cooper was asked about his performance. The Nottingham Forest boss, who took charge of Liverpool’s youth team almost a decade ago and also runs the club’s youth academy, was effusive in his praise of his new signing. “I thought his passing and composure was outstanding,” he said.
“He makes a lot of tackles and interceptions.
He is a real talent.We enjoyed working with him. “He trained very well.”
Anfield is set to host a fierce clash with Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon.
Murillo is likely to come into defense ahead of Cooper, meaning he can take on the likes of Mohamed Salah on the left side of the pitch.
Klopp will be hoping his star men can shine and win for United, but he will also be keen to see how his emerging talents fare with one of the best strikers in the world. If Murillo can overcome Salah’s dangerous qualities, he could soon be on Liverpool’s shortlist.
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