Liverpool

Liverpool

Premier League • England

Liverpool legend John Barnes names key factor which will impact Jurgen Klopp’s transfer plans

Liverpool legend John Barnes

John Barnes thinks Jurgen Klopp will only aim to bring players to Liverpool this summer if current stars opt to move on.

Liverpool have made some fantastic signings in recent transfer windows. In summer 2020, they brought Diogo Jota and Thiago to Anfield.

Jota soon managed to break up the famous front three amid his impressive scoring run. The Portuguese’s Liverpool record stands at 34 goals from 82 matches so far.

Thiago, meanwhile, took time to get to his best but is now one of Klopp’s top performers.

Last summer, Liverpool improved their squad further with the capture of centre-back Ibrahima Konate. He is now in a battle with Joel Matip to feature alongside Virgil van Dijk in defence.

The Reds continued their success in the transfer market by beating Tottenham to Luis Diaz’s signature in January. He appears set to become a Liverpool star after adapting quickly to Klopp’s system.

During a recent interview, former winger Barnes was asked about potential incomings this summer.

He thinks Liverpool have done most of the business they need to and will only pursue new stars if current options leave.

John Barnes delivers transfer verdict

“I don’t think you’ll see many signings coming in. Look at last year what happened with Thiago, Konate, then Luis Diaz, then Jota also came in,” Barnes said (via Liverpool Echo).

“I think it really depends on who goes, there’s talk of players leaving.

“I think, depending on which players go, there’s talk of (Divock) Origi going, if one leaves, will others leave. If no one goes, then I don’t think they’re going to make any signings.

“You’ve got Harvey Elliott to come through, Curtis Jones. Defenders – Joe Gomez. It really depends on who goes. No one’s gone yet. Come the end of the season when players leave, they’ll have things in place to actually replace them.”

Liverpool are unlikely to spend huge amounts this summer due to two reasons. Firstly, they spent upwards of £37.5m when landing Diaz in the winter window.

Plus, Liverpool tend to prioritise shrewd signings over big-money moves if they can help it.

However, the result of the Premier League title race could change things. As things stand, City are in pole position to clinch the English league crown and this may force Liverpool to bring in some added firepower.

One player they are being linked with is Ajax winger Antony, although he is also a target for Manchester United.