Clues emerge as Klopp reveals failed Liverpool midfielder swoop, but admits ‘problems’ of risky Plan B

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has revealed for the first time this summer concrete details of a failed approach for a midfielder target.

Talk of a new signing in the Anfield engine room has grown over several weeks. The Reds started pre-season with nine midfielders, but injuries – not for the first time – have decimated the ranks.

The spotlight has subsequently fallen on Jordan Henderson and James Milner, whose performances have attracted criticism.

And Klopp has faced an increasing number of questions about a new midfielder. Last week, the Liverpool boss performed a U-turn on his plans and revealed he is going after a new signing.

On Tuesday, though, he admitted that he is now unlikely to sign anyone before Thursday’s transfer deadline. Indeed, he quoted contract issues and clubs refusing to sell as obstacles.

Revealing more about the situation, Klopp in fact confirmed that Liverpool went after a midfielder earlier this year. However, the transfer target moved elsewhere.

“You all told me – you are the ones who ask the questions – do I need a midfielder? A 10th midfielder!?” Klopp said.

“I am not sure, but we were going for a midfielder who decided to go to another club, which can happen.”

As for the identity of the target, Liverpool reportedly eyed up former Monaco star Aurelien Tchouameni earlier this summer. The Frenchman decided to sign for Real Madrid, though.

Jurgen Klopp highlights Liverpool midfielder issues

Klopp added that Liverpool are always looking for the “right” midfielder, who is both a short-term and long-term option – and that any deal must not have a negative knock-on effect on future plans.

“All these things are going through my mind,” the manager said. “That is how our life is. We cannot just push the button, say ‘bring him in’ and we worry about all the problems it could create next year or later on.

“Yes, then we get injuries and all of a sudden it looks like, oh yes, we need a midfielder, definitely.

“We always wanted [a midfielder] but it was always about the right one and we cannot change that just because of some things.

“Yes, more injuries but that can change a bit and then we say that we can do this now and maybe that would help next year as well. It must always be short and long term and this didn’t happen yet, that’s it.”

Reds happy to stick with what they have

In the end, Klopp’s mantra has always been to find “solutions” – as he puts it – to solve problems which transfers cannot solve.

The 2020/21 campaign proved that philosophy to a T. Fringe centre-backs Nathaniel Phillips and Rhys Williams – both inexperienced at the top level – came on leaps and bounds to help Liverpool to an unlikely top-four Premier League finish.

And this season will be no different for Klopp, who has admitted that he would from time to time like to take more risks in the transfer market.

But, owners Fenway Sports Group run the club sustainably and Klopp has therefore worked wonders with limited resources.

Thiago Alcantara is close to returning from injury, while Curtis Jones is back in full training.

The injury crisis is therefore easing and while that may appease fans, the next spell on the sidelines for some of Klopp’s stars is seemingly only round the corner.

But Klopp will always assure that he will find “solutions” until the exact right transfer target comes along.