Liverpool told which two blockbuster signings will make them a ‘major’ force in Europe again

Fresh off their 7-0 hammering of Manchester United, Garth Crooks has suggested the two players that Liverpool should look to sign in the summer transfer window.

There’s no denying that Liverpool have been off the pace this year, with Jurgen Klopp’s side currently sitting in fifth in the table. However, their 7-0 triumph was a reminder of just how good they can be.

The likes of Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo have started to find their feet. Both forwards managed to get on the scoresheet over the weekend as they blew away Man Utd.

Crooks now believes that Gakpo is worthy of filling Sadio Mane’s boots at Anfield. The pundit wrote in his BBC column: “Since the departure of Sadio Mane to Bayern Munich, Liverpool fans have been patiently waiting to see a replacement they could embrace.

“I think Gakpo might be that player. The former PSV striker has settled in to his role at Anfield seamlessly and in a manner of weeks.

“He is composed in front of goal and a team player – both very much in the image of Mane. Much has been said about where Liverpool currently are as a team and whether they might be on the decline. Well, not on this performance.”

With Liverpool just three points behind Tottenham with a game in hand, there is now a real chance of a top four finish this year.

Having the lure of Champions League football next season will be imperative to Klopp’s side as they are expected to be busy in the summer.

“United were undressed by Liverpool and there are only two things stopping Liverpool from becoming a major European force again: their names are Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice,” added Crooks.

Could Liverpool pull off double deal?

The future of both Bellingham and Rice is now very much up in the air. Liverpool have been long-term admirers of both players.

Bellingham continues to impress for Borussia Dortmund and is one of the most in-demand players in Europe. At just 19 years old he plays with maturity beyond his years.

The teenager is contracted with the German club until 2025. However, a bidding war in the summer is to be expected with several sides interested.

Bellingham has scored 10 goals across all competitions as well as providing five assists in that time. There’s no doubt that he would prove to be a popular signing at Anfield.

Alternatively, Rice is also a player worth considering for Liverpool. Due to their ageing core in the middle, they should be looking to sign at least two players.

While playing for England, Rice has showcased himself to be a worthy partner of Bellingham as the pair work together well.

Rice brings a different skillet to the table to that of Bellingham although Liverpool would not be alone in their pursuit of the midfielder.

As West Ham have struggled to gain any momentum this season, a change of scenery is looking likely for Rice in the summer.

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