Liverpool may have the upper hand in any negotiations for Leroy Sane this summer.

Christian Falk reported that the German international is opposed to a potential return to Manchester City amid alleged interest from their league rivals.

“The big question around Leroy has always been about his mentality. This was a big discussion with Pep Guardiola,” the German journalist wrote in his exclusive column with CaughtOffside.

“Speaking of which, there were rumours around Manchester City also being interested in the player – I heard this was an option, but I also heard that Sane doesn’t want to go back there.

“Jurgen Klopp is a coach who can get his players to buy into the work rate you need at Liverpool. This would be an intelligent move for Liverpool to get Sane, as he has everything; if you can add a working mentality to this (which Jurgen Klopp can perhaps give him), he would be perfect for Liverpool.

“Leroy Sane made a huge development at Bayern Munich regarding his work rate in recent years, tracking back in addition to his offensive output. Now you see why he’s so good now, as he’s also doing this job.”

This comes amid reports of ongoing Saudi interest in Mo Salah following a failed attempt to land the No.11’s signature in the prior summer transfer window.

READ MORE: Christian Falk: Harry Kane’s potential return to Tottenham clarified amid ‘matching right’

Could Liverpool really let their record-breaking man go?

It seems unfathomable that Jurgen Klopp’s side would even consider parting ways with a player that has brought a fanbase so much joy since his arrival in 2017.

The record-breaking wide man’s current terms are nonetheless set to expire in 2025, which raises serious questions over his club’s intentions regarding a potential extension.

Liverpool could, one imagine, secure some serious cash for the 31-year-old next year, which would be pumped back into the squad.

That said, it’s hard to imagine any player, even Bayern’s Sane, being capable of filling his boots at Anfield.

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Liverpool may have dodged a bullet in missing out on Manchester United’s Sofyan Amrabat.

Steve Nicol was critical of the 27-year-old, whom he admitted he had previously presumed would be the right fit alongside Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister at Anfield.

“If they can get somebody beside the two of them [Szoboszlai and Mac Allister] they can just take a step further forward,” the ex-Red spoke on the ESPN FC podcast.

“Right now I don’t know [who that could be], I don’t have anyone.

“I used to think Amrabat would be the right one beside them, but at United it’s not quite working out. I thought initially he would be ideal, he could sit just behind the two of them and let them do more going forward. 

“But I don’t think Endo’s the answer, I don’t think Jones is the answer. So right now, I think Liverpool need to be on the lookout for somebody.”

It didn’t work out that way, fortunately, perhaps, for Jurgen Klopp’s men, though there remain questions over the ideal option to fill the No.6 role at L4.

Wataru Endo has infrequently impressed since his switch away from the German top-flight.

Curtis Jones, also mentioned, has experience playing at the base of the midfield, though simply not enough to mark him out as the standout choice.

Do Liverpool buy? Or trust Mac Allister?

Andre of Fluminense has been heavily linked in the meantime, though recent reports have suggested that Liverpool may be looking in a different direction to solve this challenge.

Statistically, however, it’s worth pointing out that Mac Allister has been far from appalling in the holding role, amassing a superior rate of tackles, blocks and interceptions per 90 compared to Rodri.

In a brand-new midfield that still needs time to mesh, perhaps the Argentine simply needs to be left alone to figure out what is both an integral and complex position.

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Liverpool will have some significant hurdles to overcome if they wish to steal highly-rated youngster Jamal Musiala away from Bavaria in future.

One such hurdle Christian Falk reported on, however, could offer the Reds something of an advantage if they were to swoop in early on this matter – specifically, the player’s wage demands.

“Liverpool’s German coach, Jürgen Klopp, and sports director, Jörg Schmadtke, are once again eyeing the Bundesliga – and could really annoy FC Bayern over three personalities!” the German journalist wrote in his exclusive Fact Files column.

“The most important: Liverpool are very interested in Jamal Musiala. After Jude Bellingham, the Reds don’t want to miss out on the next talent from the Bundesliga originally trained in England.

“Liverpool are hopeful in light of their awareness of Musiala’s agents having decided not to hold talks about a new contract with Bayern this season, with his current terms running until 2026.

“Musiala’s side would first like a commitment from the club that ensures he has a permanent place in the first team in the future. In addition, he is by no means one of the top earners at €8m. His salary would probably have to be at least doubled.”

With a contract not due to expire until 2026, of course, just merely having the means of compensating the 20-year-old will only get you so far, and it’s fair to say that the Bundesliga giants will not be keen on the idea of letting a top talent leave on the cheap.

What kind of price can Liverpool expect?

If €80-100m [£69.8-87.3m] is the rough ballpark potential suitors would need to engage with to potentially land Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz in the summer, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that Liverpool may need to stump up a similar range of cash.

It’s worth bearing in mind that Jurgen Klopp’s men have already stocked up their midfield significantly over the course of the summer and appear especially keen on further bolstering it in the upcoming window with a holding midfielder.

Still, the promise of landing a ‘world-class’ (in the eyes of Julian Nagelsmann, as relayed by the Bundesliga’s official website) talent after falling short in the race for Jude Bellingham last summer could prove far too tempting to ignore. Especially if their finances can meet the demands of both player and club.

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Christian Falk has revealed that Hoffenheim’s Maximilian Beier has ‘definitely’ been added to Liverpool’s transfer shortlist.

The German is already garnering interest from across the Premier League, however, with both Brentford and Merseyside rivals Everton said to hold ‘concrete’ interest in the rapid attacker.

“Another name on Liverpool’s list is Maximilian Beier of Hoffenheim – I heard he’s definitely on the list, as he brings something that’s very interesting for Liverpool!” the BILD journalist wrote in his exclusive column with CaughtOffside.

“His high speed this season was 35.45kmph. It’s also really good for Germany; he’s the second-fastest German player behind Leroy Sane. His contract at Hoffenheim runs until 2025 and I heard he has a release clause; he’ll be a little bit more expensive for English clubs but for German clubs he’ll only cost €20m. So you see, Liverpool are looking around at the Bundesliga again.”

Falk went on to add: “He’s not very expensive, which would fit into Liverpool’s business model. Keep in mind, though, that Brentford and Everton’s interest in the player is concrete.”

The Reds could find themselves in need of some fresh blood in the forward line should they look to offload Mo Salah next summer.

MORE: Clubs warned over Lois Openda interest as Falk drops release clause truth

The Egyptian King has registered an impressive eight goal contributions in nine games this term, which raises the question as to whether Liverpool could justify parting ways even with only a year set to remain on his contract come the summer of 2024.

One might reasonably imagine that discussions would have to take place over a possible extension of sorts, though that in itself would represent an out-of-character gamble on the club’s part with a then 32-year-old.

The question is, which will last longer: the Saudi Pro League bubble or the peak of Salah’s footballing powers?

The post ‘I heard’ – German striker ‘definitely’ on Liverpool’s transfer list; Brentford & Everton want him appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Jermaine Pennant has urged Liverpool to sign a ‘proper enforcer’ this January in order to help push Alexis Mac Allister into his natural position.

Manu Kone’s name was pulled out of the hat to fit that particular bill, with the aforementioned Argentinian currently plying his trade in the No.6 role following Fabinho’s summer exit.

“I’d like to see Liverpool sign a proper enforcer in January. For me, that player would be Manu Kone. I think he would be a great number six and encourage Mac Allister to move further forward,” the former Red was quoted as saying by TEAMtalk.

With Curtis Jones performing superbly in the left central midfield role, however, it does raise questions as to what midfield trio Jurgen Klopp would select should the Reds sign a natural holding midfielder.

MORE: Unai Emery takes Gary Neville’s side against Klopp in VAR debate as replay war wages on

It’s worth remembering too that Liverpool do technically have a natural No.6 currently available in the squad in former Stuttgart skipper Wataru Endo.

The expectation remains, however, that a younger option – perhaps Andre of Fluminense with whom they have been heavily linked – could be pursued in the next transfer window to complete the set, so to speak.

In any event, it would provide a welcome headache for Klopp when contrasted to the sharp decline of his midfield department in 2022/23.

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Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly keen on signing the talented young defender Patrick Dorgu.

As per Fichajes, the Lecce defender has caught the attention of the Premier League clubs with his performances in the Italian league and he could prove to be a solid, long-term investment for both clubs.

Chelsea paid big money for the likes of Marc Cucurella, but the former Brighton defender has not been able to live up to the expectations at Stamford Bridge.

Ben Chilwell is the only reliable left-back at the club right now and Chelsea could certainly use more depth in that area. Dorgu could be an understudy to Chilwell and he could compete for the first-team spot at the London club.

Meanwhile, Liverpool need to bring in a quality alternative to Andrew Robertson.

The Scottish defender has been exceptional since joining the club from Hull City, but his performances have been inconsistent over the past year.

He could certainly use more competition and Kostas Tsimikas has been rather underwhelming.

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Dorgu would certainly be a solid investment for both Premier League clubs and it remains to be seen whether they decide to come forward with a concrete proposal to sign him.

Apparently, both clubs have stepped up their efforts to secure the 18-year-old’s signature and it remains to be seen whether they can agree on a fee with Lecce.

The Italian outfit will not want to part with their prized prospect anytime soon, but they could be tempted if there is a lucrative offer on the table.

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Jurgen Klopp has revealed that Trent Alexander-Arnold is set to undergo a scan on a hamstring injury picked up against Aston Villa.

Alexander-Arnold captained Liverpool to a routine win against Aston Villa in the Premier League today. His personal performance was exceptional with his creativity once again mesmerising Liverpool fans.

But the Liverpool right-back was forced off injured midway through the second half. He was seen exchanging words with Jurgen Klopp on the sideline explaining him how he feels.

Klopp said:

“I’m interested as well. I don’t know exactly,” he told reporters.

“It’s [his] hamstring – not too serious, is his opinion.

“We have to wait for the scan.”

Alexander-Arnold is expected to pull out of the England squad. He is likely to miss England’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine and friendly against Scotland.

His injury is the last thing that Liverpool needs right now. The English defender has helped Liverpool to a 15 match unbeaten run in the Premier League.

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Liverpool vs Aston Villa: Live stream, TV Channel, Start time and Team news

Liverpool (5th in the Premier League) take on Aston Villa (8th in the Premier League) on Sunday 3rd of September, at Anfield, at 14:00 PM (BST).

The last time these two sides faced, the spoils were shared as the teams drew 1-1 at Anfield. Goals from Jacob Ramsey in the 27th minute, and an 89th minute equaliser from Roberto Firmino.

Liverpool won their last Premier League outing, coming from behind to beat Newcastle 2-1 at St James’ Park. Anthony Gordan scoring Newcastle’s goal in the 25th minute, which was followed by a first half sending off for Virgil Van Dijk, before 10 man Liverpool struck back with a late brace from substitute Darwin Nunez in the 81st and 93rd minute.

Aston Villa were also victorious in their previous Premier League fixture, winning 3-1 away at Burnley. A brace from Matty Cash inside the opening 20 minutes sent Villa in at halftime 2-0 up, Lyle Foster grabbed one back for Burnley in the 47th minute, before Moussa Diaby scored to make it 3-1 in the 61st minute.

How to watch Liverpool vs Aston Villa

• Date: Sunday, September 3rd, 2023
• Kickoff: 14:00 PM (BST)
• TV Network: Not broadcast in the UK
• Venue: Anfield

Team News:

Liverpool will be without Ibrahima Konate and Thiago Alacantara, who remain sidelined through injury. Curtis Jones however has returned from injury and is available for selection against Aston Villa. Virgil Van Dijk will also be absent due to his suspension, after his red card incident against Newcastle.

Aston Villa will remain without Jacob Ramsey, Alex Moreno, Tyrone Mings and Emi Buendia, as well as Bertrand Traore who now joins them on the sidelines. Emi Martinez will be assessed before the game, and a decision will be made on his availability.

Predicted XI:

Liverpool: Alisson, Robertson, Gomez, Matip, Alexander-Arnold, Mac Allister, Endo, Szoboszlai, Diaz, Gakpo, Salah.

Aston Villa: Martinez, Digne, Torres, Konsa, Cash, McGinn, Kamara, Luiz, Bailey, Diaby, Watkins.

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Brentford appear to have failed in their quest to sign Johan Bakayoko, which could yet open the door for a Liverpool move in future.

Fabrizio Romano shared the update in question on X on Friday morning, with the player having communicated to the Bees that he won’t be moving to the Premier League this summer.

Johan Bakayoko has communicated to Brentford that he’s NOT joining them. Final decision confirmed. ????

Despite deal almost agreed between clubs, Bakayoko decides to stay at PSV in order to play Champions League football.

Brentford remain keen on signing him in January. pic.twitter.com/3NRFTDZsL9

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2023

Described as a ‘wonderful talent’ by scout Jacek Kulig on X, the Belgian has enjoyed a strong start to the campaign with four assists in seven appearances – following on from an impressive showing the prior term in which the forward amassed 15 goal contributions in 39 appearances (a goal or assist every 165 minutes).

Johan Bakayoko – 6 goals and 3 assists in his last 5 games for Jong PSV.

Wonderful talent, fantastic left foot.

Madueke-esque.

Stay tuned. pic.twitter.com/CFY11gw1Np

— Football Talent Scout – Jacek Kulig (@FTalentScout) January 15, 2022

MORE: ‘Let’s see’ – Fabrizio Romano drops cryptic Armel Bella-Kotchap claim amid Liverpool question

The priority for Jurgen Klopp’s men in the current window has, of course, always been clear: rebuild the midfield department and secure left-sided centre-half to reinforce the backline.

Once Ryan Gravenberch is officially announced as Liverpool’s fourth summer signing – following on from Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Wataru Endo – the former of the two objectives will have most certainly been achieved.

Amid ongoing questions over Mo Salah’s future at Anfield, with the player’s contract notably set to expire in two years’ time, it’s entirely likely that discussions have begun behind the scenes with regard to how the club could future-proof the right-wing should the Egyptian depart in 2024.

Even should Liverpool resist the temptation of a mega-fee from Saudi Arabia, it would be far from unreasonable to expect a similar attempt in the following summer window, which would leave the club in need of a replacement.

Assuming that Bakayoko’s position when it comes to Brentford’s interest is maintained beyond the January window, this could be an option the Merseysiders explore down the line.

The post Liverpool will get their chance to sign ‘wonderful talent’ after Premier League rejection – report appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Ryan Gravenberch appeared to cut a rather excited figure when discussing Liverpool’s interest in him with Christian Falk.

The Dutchman now appears set to sign for the Merseysiders barring any late hitches in the plan, with a medical scheduled following the player’s arrival in the city on Friday morning.

“Ryan Gravenberch is on his way to Liverpool with medical tests booked after the clubs reached an agreement on a fee of €40m,” the BILD journalist informed CaughtOffside in his exclusive Fact Files column.

“I always mention that Jurgen Klopp was very keen on signing this player.

“I had talked to Gravenberch on Sunday and he was smiling when I asked about Liverpool and his future. He mentioned at the time he couldn’t say anything and that we had to wait a few more days. Now here we are!”

The former Ajax man had evidently fallen down the pecking order at Munich, with the likes of Konrad Laimer, Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich all favoured.

With a further No.6 desired by Thomas Tuchel – and talks ongoing with Fulham over the signing of Joao Palhinha – few could argue with Gravenberch’s decision-making at a time where minutes on the pitch look to be increasingly sparse as the days roll by in the transfer window.

That’s not to say the 21-year-old won’t have fierce competition at Anfield, with the likes of Wataru Endo, Dominik Szoboszlai and Alexis Mac Allister brought in to bolster a midfield left bereft of experience and quality.

Though, under a manager in Jurgen Klopp who appears to believe a great deal more in his versatility, opportunities for playing time theoretically shouldn’t be so hard to come by.

Only time will tell whether this proved to be the right call for both player and club.

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