As Liverpool’s midfield woes last season saw them learn the hard way the value of quality over quantity, it was glaring how the Reds lacked a linchpin at the peak of his powers.
Jurgen Klopp called upon the services of 11 different senior midfielders this season, with such a total rising to 15 if we wish to include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Cody Gakpo, Roberto Firmino, and youngster Bobby Clark. Yet, with Liverpool ultimately boasting an ageing, injury-prone squad as they navigated an underwhelming, transitional campaign, the majority of their options were either ageing stars on the decline, unfortunate players struck down by recurring lay-offs, or raw, unproven potential.
Liverpool have moved quickly to address such issues now the season is over, at least. With James Milner, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Juventus loanee Arthur Melo all departing, the Reds confirmed the signing of Alexis Mac Allister on Thursday. Brought in for an undisclosed fee, reported to be as low as £35m, the 24-year-old is a proven Premier League player coming into his prime who boasts an impeccable availability record.
