Liverpool confirmed Jurgen Klopp had extended his contract with the Reds on Thursday, the day after the club had taken the latest step in their quest for a quadruple.
The Reds marched to a 2-0 win over Villarreal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final, courtesy of a deflected Jordan Henderson cross and a smart Sadio Mane finish. Having already won the Carabao Cup, reached the FA Cup final and continued to push Manchester City for the league title, dreams of an unprecedented quadruple are still alive.
The following day Liverpool announced that Klopp, along with members of his coaching staff, had extended his contract at Anfield until 2026. Speaking ahead of official confirmation regarding the Liverpool boss, the ECHO’s Ian Doyle answered questions in a live Q+A and here’s what was said.
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MarcusBanks: Is there any update on contract negotiations for either Roberto Firmino or Sadio Mane? Seems unlikely all three of the original front three would be given new deals.
Ian Doyle: Nothing yet. In fact, I doubt there'll be much on contracts now until the season has finished. It isn't a priority right now as the focus is now completely on winning games and winning trophies. Mind you, the potential last game is only a month away, so not long to wait. I'd be surprised if Firmino or Mane leave in the summer, although certainly with the latter his stock is extremely high right now. I'd imagine Liverpool will at the very least offer them something to extend their stay.
David67231: Hi, is Renato Sanches being considered and are we going to sign a midfielder this summer thanks? Do you know if Ismaila Sarr would be of any interest this summer Thank you.
Ian Doyle: Liverpool obviously linked with Sarr heavily when they instead bought Diogo Jota. It would be a surprise if they went back in for him, though, given they have since also signed Luis Diaz. That might be enough in terms of forwards for the time being - Diaz was initially only arriving in the summer. As for Sanches, Liverpool have long distanced themselves from such links so, again, it would involve a change of heart for that to happen.
Fariha: Will James Milner's contract be extended?
Ian Doyle: Jurgen Klopp would like that to happen but it all depends on what James Milner wants and what the club believe he is worthy of at age 36.
David67231: Do you think we will sign a midfielder this summer ?
Ian Doyle: Not unless somebody significant leaves. They already have a lot of them. I am factoring in that Milner is expected to leave at present, although Klopp would prefer he stays.
Daniel4774: We have previously been linked with Jonathan David who is reportedly leaving Lille this summer. Is there a chance we could sign him or any other attacker in the close future or we have enough in that department?
Ian Doyle: It would be a bit strange for Liverpool to bring in another forward this summer if everybody else stays where they are in the squad. We know Divock Origi is on his way. There could be question marks over Takumi Minamino. But at present, it seems very unlikely a new wide forward will be coming in.
Nquinn20: Hi there, is Vitinha from FC Porto a target for our midfield this summer?
Ian Doyle: Not sure on that one, to be honest. He is of the right age bracket, though. Liverpool are looking for younger midfielders long-term.
Nquinn20: Is there any interest in David Carmo from Braga?
Ian Doyle: Not that I've heard. However, he is young and there's no doubt Liverpool are looking to evolve by again looking to younger talent. I'm not sure a centre-back is a priority just yet, though. It may depend on what happens with Joe Gomez this summer.
Relegation: Aurelien Tchouameni? We will never sign a player whose name we can't sing.
Ian Doyle: Should say that to Stig Inge Bjornebye.
