Three signings to boost Liverpool’s top-four hopes
Jake Evans takes a look at three possible transfer targets for Liverpool this summer
Diego Godin
Liverpool don’t want to start the season with uncertainty in defence but Brendan Rodgers can’t seem to decide who should partner Martin Skrtel at centre-half. Dejan Lovren and Mamadou Sakho have been competing throughout pre-season but neither player looks nailed on to secure a place in the starting line-up. Sakho performed well last season and was impressive in defence but perhaps his lacklustre distribution is concerning Rodgers, who looks set to grant Lovren a second chance at the club despite a severely disappointing start to his Anfield career. Neither of these players can be considered truly top-class Premier League defenders and Rodgers should dig deep to strengthen in this fragile area. Diego Godin would make be an excellent addition to the Liverpool squad and the Uruguayan could form a formidable and terrifying partnership with Skrtel. He is the finished article, having been with Atletico Madrid for five years now and could be seeking a new challenge as he prepares to enter his thirties. Rodgers, who should still have some money to spend following Raheem Sterling’s transfer to Manchester City, would be able to tempt Atletico with an offer of around £20M.
Pedro
Pedro is available this summer and a huge amount of top European clubs are interested, with Manchester United currently favourites to secure his signature. However, Liverpool could guarantee the Spanish winger first-team football which could help soften the blow of no Champions League. He is quick and direct, good at finishing and dangerous when running with the ball. Rodgers could have himself a ready-made replacement for Sterling if he’s willing to meet Barcelona’s £21.4m buyout clause.
Mattia Perin
At just 22, Mattia Perin could be a real long term investment for Liverpool. The talented Genoa goalkeeper was sublime for the Serie A side last year and earned himself a place in the team of the season. Liverpool fans have understandable concerns over current first-choice Mignolet and new signing Adam Bogdan will only serve as back-up. Rodgers should secure the services of the Italian goalkeeper who commands his area and plays with an experience beyond his years. The Reds could insert their own buyout clause that would allow for significant profit in the future as Perin is only going to get even better.
