Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has conceded that uncertainty over playing in the Champions League next season is having an effect on summer transfer talks, but is confident he'll still be able to bring in the players he wants.
Six successive Premier League wins have rejuvenated Liverpool's hopes of a top four finish, leaving them fifth and just a point off Man United above them, albeit having played a game more. But in reality, the Reds are still relying on slip ups from their rivals if they are to pull off a remarkable heist and book their seat at Europe's top table next season.
Amid plans to revamp his squad this summer, the German boss made rising England star Jude Bellingham his top target, but the Anfield club pulled out of the race after balking at the £80 million plus fee. They've also been linked with the likes of Bayern star Ryan Gravenberch and West Ham's Declan Rice, but are yet to agree a deal for any incoming player.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday, Klopp laid bare the biggest issue in any current negotiations, saying: "When I talk to a player, if I'm allowed which is barely the case, you can realise if they are interested, we are not 100 per cent in the Champions League next season and they would know that.
"It's one thing we can't guarantee next year, but everything else is the same. It is a fantastic football club. We are still Liverpool and very attractive for a lot of players. I am not concerned about that. Of course it is more difficult without Champions League."
Liverpool have not been without Champions League football since the 2016-17 season, which represented Klopp's first full campaign in charge. They've since appeared in three finals, beating Spurs in 2018-19 to secure a sixth European crown.
HAVE YOUR SAY! Can Liverpool attract big stars without Champions League football ? Comment below
The immediate focus of the German boss will be a trip to Leicester on Monday night, followed by games against Aston Villa and Southampton. In reality, nine points are needed to have any chance of displacing United or Newcastle above them.
But whilst Klopp was candid about his team's lack of consistency this season, he also argued there was reason for encouragement: "We play a really bad season, I think everybody in this room agrees. Now we have 62 points? It's strange," he said.
And referencing his side taking 18 points from a possible 18, with their latest success a win over Brentford last Saturday, he added: "Not everything is bad about us and around us!"
