Liverpool want two of the best youngsters in the Bundesliga this summer, writes Dominic King for the Daily Mail.
While this particular publication shouldn’t always be trusted, the stuff produced by King on Liverpool can be, as he’s formerly of the Echo and has direct links to the club.
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In his article this morning, he writes that now Adam Lallana’s new contract has been finalised, the club will focus on signing new stars this summer – and suggests Christian Pulisic and Julian Brandt are the main targets.
“Klopp is already plotting the next stage of Liverpool’s development and once he has the futures of the core members of the current group secured, he will begin the process of recruitment,” he wrote.
“It promises to be another busy summer at Anfield, with Klopp keen on signing Borussia Dortmund’s Christian Pulisic and Julian Brandt of Bayer Leverkusen.
“There will, however, be more additions, given that Liverpool are on course to be back in Europe. The squad will need more depth and quality to withstand the amount of fixtures.”
Brandt is an old-fashioned winger in that he dribbles at opponents and is capable of hugging the touchline and getting to the byline, but he can also play as an inside-forward on either flank – so would be perfect for Klopp’s favoured 4-3-3 formation.
Pulisic is two years younger at 18 and can similarly play anywhere in attacking midfield, although he’s regarded more for his creativity and passing than his ability to beat a defender.
Neither are ‘available’ and their respective German clubs refused to sell in January, but it appears Liverpool will do all they can to acquire the young attackers at the end of the campaign instead.
As neither have yet reached 21, it appears the club is aiming to continue its policy of signing talented youngsters who have the potential for greatness.