Liverpool should be going everything they can to sign Bayern Munich defender David Alaba, according to Optus Sport pundit John Aloisi.
The Reds have been linked with the soon-to-be out-of-contract Austrian, although there is major competition from Real Madrid.
Aloisi, who played in the Premier League for Coventry, described the 28-year-old as ‘exactly what’ Liverpool need as Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen his squad in the summer. The Australian told Optus Sport:
For next season, I would go and sign (David) Alaba from Bayern Munich. He is going to be on a free, I’m not sure if he’s already agreed with Real Madrid, what a player he is.
He is exactly what they need in terms of that centre-back, left-footed, can defend forward, when there’s space in behind he is so quick he can get back in.
Liverpool were said to be interested in a host of central defenders in what was a January transfer window reminiscent of Groundhog Day in many respects. They eventually signed Ben Davies and Ozan Kabak on transfer deadline day to appease their defensive woes.
However, with Davies’ capabilities at elite level unknown, and with Kabak currently only signed until the end of the season, Klopp could still be in the market for another defensive solution in the summer.
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Alaba isn’t necessarily known for his rapid pace, so for Aloisi to pinpoint that as an area of strength comes as a surprise.
However, it’s the experienced Austrian international’s versatility which may further entice Klopp to at least try and bring him to Anfield. Adept at left-back and in central defence, the 28-year-old has proved his capabilities in numerous positions time and again.
During Bayern’s FIFA Club World Cup final triumph, in which the Bavarian side took Liverpool’s world champions tag, Alaba was utilised as a holding midfielder in front of a back four.
Given the injury woes which have befelled the Reds this season, as well as the Austrian’s glittering CV, it’s no surprise that Aloisi has so strongly championed him as an ideal signing for the Anfield club.
