Former Liverpool star Dietmar Hamann has advised Jurgen Klopp to swoop for Newcastle ace Joelinton as a left-field alternative to Declan Rice. The Brazilian, who is now flourishing at St James’ Park after a slow start, would likely come at a fraction of the price with West Ham sure to demand a mammoth fee for their club captain.
A shortage in midfield is just one of the reasons Liverpool have been way short of their imperious best this campaign. Just months after going close to an unprecedented quadruple in 2021/22, they sit ninth in the Premier League with almost one third of the season behind them.
The Reds haven’t won a Premier League match by more than a single goal since August 27, when they hammered newly-promoted Bournemouth 9-0. Although things are better in Europe, Liverpool suffered another domestic defeat at home to Leeds United on Saturday.
Klopp could combat his side’s downfall by looking to bolster his midfield options over the coming transfer windows. Although Rice has long been touted as one of the hottest properties on the market, Hamann feels that Joelinton would provide a much-needed element of adventure.
JUST IN: Rangers told whether Steven Gerrard would return as pressure mounts on Van Bronckhorst
Interest in Rice spiked during the summer but West Ham boss David Moyes attempted to warn off suitors with a whopping £150million asking price. Newcastle would surely ask for significantly less when it comes to Joelinton, even though the 26-year-old has grown into a crucial player under Eddie Howe following an unusual transition into midfield.
The Brazilian arrived at St James’ Park for £40m in 2019, making him the club’s record signing by a huge margin. He played primarily as a striker for Hoffenheim and Rapid Wien but, after a slow start up top in the north-east, Howe decided to try him out in a new position.
Joelinton has taken to midfield like a duck to water, fulfilling his defensive duties and popping up with the occasional goal, as he did against Aston Villa on Saturday. The Newcastle star has three years left on his current contract, putting the club under no pressure to sell.
It remains to be seen whether Klopp considers Hamann’s transfer advice, given the pair’s recent spat in the media. The Liverpool boss bizarrely shot his countryman down during a press conference over claims that the Reds have lost their ‘spark’ this campaign.
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest Football News Click Here