Liverpool missing out on David Alaba would be a blow for the Reds, with the Bayern Munich superstar possessing the ability to have a similar impact to Thiago at Anfield.
Juventus are the current favourites to sign the rumoured Liverpool target, according to Tuttosport, as he weighs up his options.
The 28-year-old could leave Bayern Munich in January, having not yet signed a new deal with the reigning European champions, although they are reportedly keen to keep hold of him.
Alaba’s current contract expires at the end of the season and Liverpool have been linked with a move for him in the next transfer window.
This latest report claims that Juventus are at the front of the queue to sign the defender, however, suggesting the Premier League champions’ hopes of snapping him up are fading.
Some may point to Alaba’s age and claim that he is a player potentially on the wane, but he remains a world-class footballer with several years left at the top.
The Austrian was an integral part of Bayern’s Champions League-winning team last season, switching from his preferred left-back role and excelling at centre-back.
Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick hailed him in an interview with World Today News back in May, saying he is the man who “holds the defence together.”
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Alaba is an elite footballer in so many ways, with his intelligence, use of the ball and versatility making him a dream player for any manager.
There are parallels to be drawn with Thiago, in terms of him being a slightly ageing player who may want a fresh challenge after many years at Bayern, and he can still do a superb job in a top team.
With Liverpool suffering an injury crisis at the back, Alaba would indeed be the perfect addition.
Not only would he help fill the Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez-shaped voids at centre-back, but he could also play on the left and allow Andy Robertson a rest, especially while Kostas Tsimikas takes time to settle at his new club.
Alaba could even slot into a central midfield berth if he was needed there, as has been the case for Austria so often.
The Bayern star may not be a typical Klopp signing – the Liverpool manager has generally signed players in their early to mid 20s – but just like Thiago, when a player so gifted becomes available, it is worth taking a punt on him.
Juventus may have the upper hand if this latest report is to be believed, but the Reds would be foolish not to at least consider bringing in Alaba in January.
