Klopp ‘open to sanctioning’ perfect Liverpool transfer with big consequences for Joe Gomez

Jurgen Klopp is reportedly on board with sanctioning a familiar deal for a second time in a move that could determine the fate of Joe Gomez.

Gomez, 24, has struggled to achieve minutes in his recognised position of centre-back this season. Gomez returned from a lengthy injury lay-off at the beginning of the season, but the summer arrival or Ibrahima Konate combined with Joel Matip’s sparkling form saw Gomez relegated to a distant fourth choice.

That sparked rampant speculation in January over a potential exit, with Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa linked.

The Daily Mail later put Championship high flyers Fulham in the mix for a potential summer swoop. Clearly, Gomez will have no shortage of suitors willing to test Liverpool’s resolve.

However, right-back Neco Williams’ loan exit to Fulham in January opened the door for Gomez to feature.

Gomez has deputised when Trent Alexander-Arnold has missed out. He produced a sublime assist for Diogo Jota’s opening goal against Watford last weekend.

However, Williams’ loan with the Cottagers is only until the end of the season. That means his potential return to Anfield next year could close out one of Gomez’s avenues to match action.

But according to West London Sport, the need to rebuff all of Gomez’s suitors in the summer could be strengthened after it was reported Jurgen Klopp is ‘open to sanctioning another loan’ for Neco Williams.

The Welshman has started 10 in a row for Marco Silva’s side who are all but guaranteed to win promotion.

Williams has shone thus far and has bagged two goals and two assists from right-back. He is gaining vital experience in London – something that would be in far shorter supply behind Alexander-Arnold at Anfield.

A return to Fulham on loan next season would be the logical step and would ensure his development can continue at a rapid rate. What’s more, it would allow him to feature regularly ahead of a potential Wales appearance at the Qatar World Cup.

The sanctioning of that deal would also mean Gomez would need to be retained to cover at right-back. The days of James Milner deputising in the position now seem to be over.

Fulham boss Silva recently kept his cards close to his chest when asked about bringing Williams back on board next season.

However, he did admit he has been hugely impressed by the Liverpool loanee.

Silva wowed by Williams

“It’s too early for us to think about or talk about it,” said Silva.

“Neco is fully focused in his role at this football club, we are focused on taking the best from him.

“I promised him in January he could come here and fight (for regular football). But the competition would be tough.

“He is improving each game, even in the last game against QPR where he didn’t start the game like we would have wanted him to because of the way they approached the game, he was much better second half.

“His intensity and the way he supported our offensive game has been fantastic. He is a young lad who always gives his best.

“I am pleased with the way he has adapted at our football club. But talking about his future is too early for us.”