Former goalkeeper David James has suggested that Liverpool made a significant transfer mistake by overlooking the potential signing of Mateo Kovacic. Manchester City have captured the Croatian midfielder from Chelsea in a £30 million deal. However, James believes Kovacic would have been an ideal fit for the Reds.
While Pep Guardiola’s City seeks midfield reinforcements, Liverpool is also in need of bolstering their options in the middle of the park. Despite having allowed several stalwarts to depart. Liverpool has brought in Alexis Mac Allister from Brighton and are sure to make further additions.
Mateo Kovacic Fit for Liverpool Playstyle
James expressed doubts about Kovacic’s compatibility with City’s system but emphasized his suitability for Jurgen Klopp’s style of play. Speaking to King Casino Bonus, James stated,
“Someone who plays like Mateo Kovacic does, I would have thought would be more suited to Liverpool than Manchester City. There is something magical about the way he plays.”
He further highlighted Liverpool’s speed, energy, and pace under Klopp, suggesting that Kovacic’s ability to pick up the ball and navigate through lines with ease would make him an ideal addition to the team. In contrast, James noted that City’s style is typically slower and less reliant on individual ball-carrying.
Chelsea aims to balance their books and offload players. However, they are expected to incur a loss on Kovacic, whom they acquired from Real Madrid. This presents an opportunity for City to secure a replacement for Ilkay Gundogan, potentially compensating for a potential departure of Bernardo Silva.
Liverpool’s Recent Recruitment Struggles
Klopp’s failure to bring in a marquee midfielder last summer had repercussions, as Liverpool finished fifth in the Premier League. The team’s midfield options consist of aging players such as Fabinho, Jordan Henderson, and Thiago. Meanwhile, complemented by young talents Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott.
Liverpool’s recruitment strategy, once considered the benchmark in European football, has faced challenges in recent times. The club remains linked with a range of names, especially from overseas, in their pursuit of bolstering their squad.
With Manchester City securing Kovacic’s transfer, Liverpool must turn their attention to securing midfield reinforcements to remain competitive in the upcoming season.
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