Liverpool are reportedly ‘ready to look’ into signing Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino in January.
The Reds are in need of additions in the department in the wake of a cluster of injuries to key players already this season.
Naby Keita, James Milner, Harvey Elliott, Curtis Jones, Fabinho and Thiago have all spent time on the sidelines and as a consequence, Jurgen Klopp’s side has suffered.
According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, as cited by RedBird News on Twitter, Liverpool are considering a move for Merino.
The report upholds the 10-cap Spain ace as an alternative to Borussia Dortmund starlet Jude Bellingham.
Signed from Newcastle United in 2018, Merino has been a revelation for La Liga table-toppers Sociedad.
This season the box-to-box midfielder, hailed as the ‘best midfielder in the league’ by Imanol Alguacil, has scored three times and added two assists in 17 appearances across all competitions.
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The failure to suitably replace Gini Wijnaldum in the summer is coming back to bite Klopp in recent weeks.
Despite rarely being the star of the Liverpool show, the Dutchman boasted unmatched durability and was often the first name on the teamsheet when times were tough.
Merino possesses a similarly impressive recent injury record and would likely offer Klopp ready-made functionality.
Seemingly better off for a chastening Premier League experience in the North East, Liverpool could be primed to sign the best version yet of Merino.
Valued at £36million and under contract in Spain until 2025 (Transfermarkt), it would be an expensive acquisition but one that would offer a huge boost to the Anfield squad.
