More Anfield frustration.
Liverpool Football Club have big plans for this summer’s transfer window, but thus far their best endeavours to radically improve Jurgen Klopp’s squad have been thwarted. They are fully aware that the added challenge of Champions League football will impact on their energy levels and resource, and are therefore ready to spend big. But that’s not always as easy as it sounds.
Sure they’ve added Egyptian speedster Mohamed Salah to their number, as well as Chelsea graduate and England U20 star Dominic Solanke, but the club’s ambitions urgently demand further additions. Their pursuit of Virgil van Dijk seems to have hit an impasse, whilst a continuing interest in Naby Keita has received no encouragement whatsoever.
There has been some progress this week, with the news that highly-rated Hull City left-back Andrew Robertson is expected to join the club in an imminent deal worth around £8m. The 23-year-old may not be the most glamorous of additions but he is seen as a shrewd purchase – a reliable specialist fullback with excellent pace and good technique.
But one target who was seen as high priority for Klopp and his coaching team is going nowhere. Despite the fact that the player himself is frustrated at a lack of first-team opportunities and eager for a change, he’s going nowhere.
During their pre-season tour of Australia, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was asked about speculation linking Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain with a move away from the Emirates, with Anfield the likely destination. Wenger was just about as emphatic as he could possibly get. The powerful midfielder will not be allowed to leave.
Journalist Mike Keegan was told in no uncertain terms that Oxlade-Chamberlain was “100 per cent” staying put, with Wenger adding: “No matter what happens he will stay.” That’s that, then.
Once again, Klopp will need to reassess his shopping list and look at alternative options.
