Thiago would not get into Liverpool XI, says pundit

Serge Gnabry, Thiago Alcantara

Thiago Alcantara would not get into Liverpool’s first XI, according to former defender Steve Nicol.

Spanish outlet Sport claimed last week that “negotiations are very advanced between the player and club and only the economics have to be worked out between the two sides”.

Klopp is said to be a “long-time admirer” of the Spain midfielder from his time as Borussia Dortmund boss.

However, despite an admission from Bayern Munich that he could leave this summer, Klopp isn’t certain of a deal.

Asked after Sunday’s win over Aston Villa if the Spain star is a summer target, Klopp gave a typical response.

Klopp replied: “Would you be surprised if I didn’t answer? I never answer this type of question!

“He’s a really good player I like a lot but I like many others out there. That’s all I have to say about him.”

 

 

 

The Liverpool Echo insist “Liverpool have no plans of making a move for the player at this present time”.

Sport say Liverpool are believed to be unwilling to pay Bayern’s €35million asking price in full. As such, it’s reported they are looking to secure the 29-year-old, whose deal expires in 2021, for a lesser fee.

‘I don’t think he walks into the team’

However, Nicol says Thiago would only be a squad player at Anfield.

Nicol told ESPN FC: “I’d like to see him at Liverpool because that would mean he’d just be strengthening the squad and strengthening the competition for places.

“If they do sign him, I don’t think he walks into the team. I don’t think he is in the starting 11.

“But yes absolutely, the more quality you have and the more competition you have for places.

“At the very least, it keeps everybody on their toes.”