As the transfer window looms on, it appears more and more that our activity in the market will be limited.
As a result, it’s very likely that next season we could see the inclusion of some academy products in the first-team squad to provide cover in areas that lack squad depth. In my opinion, the positions that need to be addressed are in attack and the full back areas of the pitch. With this in mind, which of our young prospects are likely to feature next season? Let’s take a closer look.
Harry Wilson
Question marks are being raised over the future of the young welshman with Liverpool’s valuation currently standing at £25 million.
Should he stay, it’s very possible that Klopp may provide him with a few opportunities. The 22-year-old had a very impressive season at Derby, assisting three goals and scoring a total of 15; including a collection of fantastic free kicks, one of which coming at Old Trafford.
He fits the bill as he tends to cut inside and get into central areas of the pitch which would allow Trent Alexander-Arnold to overlap as he does with Salah.
His technical ability and finishing standards are high with a portfolio of smart finishes and long range strikes, showing off his composure in front of goal. He was deployed on both wings and behind the striker as an attacking midfielder meaning he offers a good amount of versatility.
All of these positions are areas which Klopp should want to bolster as he prepares for a busy season. We are currently struggling with depth in the attacking area with Xherdan Shaqiri being our only like-for-like back-up to Sadio Mane and Mo Salah, and this coupled with the Swiss international’s reduced number of appearances towards the end of the season may suggest a lack of faith from our German manager.
Ki-Jana Hoever
After making a fairly impressive debut against Wolves last season and performing well in pre-season at full back, a lot of expectation has landed on the youngster’s shoulders.
With the departure of Alberto Moreno, and the injury to Clyne in pre-season, we are lacking cover for our assist kings at left and right-back.
Although it’s possible that Milner could offer back up, it’s likely he will be preferred in midfield leaving the door open for the youngster to get some opportunities.
His pace and confidence on the ball can be advantageous when going forward, similar to Trent Alexander-Arnold, and his experience at centre back proves he’s not shy of a tackle, making him a strong contender for the position during the absence of Clyne. At 17-years-old however, his inexperience may hold him away from the first team for now.
Sepp van den Berg
One of the club’s first bit of activity this transfer window shows our focus on the future with the signing of this 17 year old. At such a young age, he already holds a very strong reputation, regarded as one of the centre backs for the future.
Despite his young age, he has been trusted in a first team environment as he made 15 appearances for his previous club PEC Zwolle and helping his team keep four clean sheets during that time. This speaks volumes about his potential given his age and inexperience.
Although we currently have four top centre backs, three of these are prone to injury. With the number of games we are likely to play next season it’s very possible that injuries will occur, leading the way for young dutchman to potentially come in.
These are three players amongst many. Rhian Brewster, Yasser Larouci and Curtis Jones have also impressed this pre-season, and are also likely to be involved in the first team throughout the upcoming season. And whilst the majority of the talk this transfer window being negative, it’s not all doom and gloom.
At Liverpool we have one of the best scouting networks and one of the best academy’s, not to mention a manager who has a reputation of nurturing young talent.
