Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp may have woken up on Monday morning a relieved man after his side rounded off a superb end to the season with a 2-0 win against Crystal Palace.
That victory saw the Reds go 10 games unbeaten, winning eight times in the process, in order to finish third in the Premier League and ensure UEFA Champions League qualification for next season.
Despite enduring a brutal campaign with injuries, form and personal losses damaging the Reds’ title defence, the German manager was delighted to qualify to be among Europe’s elite once again next term.
However, the strong finish doesn’t necessarily gloss over all the issues faced at Anfield, many of which Klopp could look to solve during the summer transfer window.
Liverpool legend Graeme Souness certainly believes those involved in recruitment at Anfield need to waste little time in getting to work as the pundit told Sky Sports of a need for enhanced squad depth.
If Liverpool don’t strengthen, they’ll be the only team in the Champions League who don’t strengthen. If you don’t strengthen, you’re standing still. I fully expect Liverpool to buy this summer and buy more than once.
One position in the squad that looks certain to be in need of replenishment is the centre of midfield after Gini Wijnaldum seemingly confirmed his own departure following Sunday’s Anfield showdown.
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Whilst a summer of lavish spending may be a farfetched expectation, transfer chief Michael Edwards will have to be at his brilliant best in order to provide Klopp with the tools required for 2021/22.
That could start with offloading numerous squad players deemed surplus to requirements, with the likes of Divock Origi, Xherdan Shaqiri and Naby Keita all potentially in danger.
Other’s that have spent time away from the club on loans, such as Harry Wilson, Marko Grujic and Loris Karius could also find themselves sold permanently this summer.
Those sales, along with broadcast and competition assurances, should give Klopp adequate funds to spend in order to challenge for major honours once more.
